Raffish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Literature

• Raffish characters often appear in works that portray the carefree or adventurous spirit of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Famous literary figures, like the character Jay Gatsby in ‘The Great Gatsby,’ embody a raffish charm despite their questionable morals.
• The term evokes images of the flapper culture in the 1920s, where nonconformity and playful rebellion were celebrated.

Pop Culture

• Raffishness is commonly associated with the bohemian lifestyle, celebrated in movies, music, and fashion that embrace individuality.
• Icons like James Dean and Jack Kerouac are often described as raffish, capturing a sense of youthful defiance and charisma.
• In the fashion world, edgy styles that mix high-end and thrifted pieces can also be seen as raffish.

Psychology

• People often find raffish individuals intriguing, as they challenge norms and inspire a sense of curiosity.
• Research suggests that unconventional styles can evoke a sense of authenticity and connection, making raffish characters appealing.
• The allure of raffishness can stem from a desire for freedom and self-expression in a conformist society.

Art

• Raffishness is often depicted in art movements like Surrealism and Dadaism, which celebrated the chaotic and the unconventional.
• Artists like Picasso have embodied a raffish lifestyle, where creativity thrives outside of standard expectations.
• In contemporary art, raffish style often manifests in graffiti and street art, showcasing boldness and rebellion.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'raffish' originated in the early 19th century, from the French word 'raffier,' which means to be unrefined or ragged.
• This term is linked to the word 'ruffian,' which also suggests a rough or rebellious character.
• It was first used in English literature in the 1880s, reflecting a bohemian lifestyle.

The word 'raffish' dates back to the late 19th century, deriving from the Middle French term 'raffin', meaning a person of low moral standing or someone who is disreputable. This was further influenced by the English word 'raff', which means to behave in a contemptible manner or to waste away. In its initial usage, 'raffish' carried primarily negative connotations associated with disreputable behavior. However, over time, it evolved to embody a sense of endearing charm and appeal, particularly in artistic and bohemian circles. By the early 20th century, it was commonly used to describe individuals whose distinctive style or nontraditional attitudes set them apart from the societal norms. Today, 'raffish' is often appreciated for its romanticized view of eccentricity and individuality.

Ranking #37,614, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 37611 hokey
• 37612 cunnilingus
• 37613 shyster
• 37614 raffish
• 37615 thriftiness
• 37616 gratifyingly
• 37617 mooting
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