ruffian

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The trial heard him described as a "ruffian" and a "street waif" who never stood still.

From BBC • Jan. 27, 2025

In America, he's a ruffian who hunts with a bow and arrow.

From Salon • Sep. 10, 2023

The mercenary, ruffian crew Marsac recruits for assistance is clearly not to be trusted.

From Washington Post • Sep. 1, 2021

Old Town Music Hall James Cagney’s knockout performance as a deranged ruffian with a bit of an Oedipus complex ignites director Raoul Walsh’s highly influential 1949 gangster classic White Heat.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 17, 2018

‘Garn, what did I say?’ said the ruffian to his mates.

From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien