Ragtag: meaning, definitions and examples
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ragtag
[ ˈræɡtæɡ ]
group of people
The term 'ragtag' refers to a group of individuals who are poorly organized, often unkempt, or mismatched in appearance. It conveys a sense of disarray or a lack of cohesion among the members. Often used to describe a motley crew or a band of misfits, this word emphasizes the unusual or eclectic nature of the group. Ragtag groups might be seen in various contexts, from military units to informal gatherings of friends. Despite their lack of uniformity, such groups can sometimes display unexpected strength or camaraderie.
Synonyms
disorderly, mismatched, uncoordinated, unsophisticated
Examples of usage
- The ragtag band of rebels fought bravely.
- The ragtag team managed to pull off a stunning victory.
- She gathered a ragtag group of friends to travel together.
- The ragtag army was formed from volunteers.
- He joined a ragtag crew of adventurers.
Translations
Translations of the word "ragtag" in other languages:
🇵🇹 desorganizado
🇮🇳 अजीब
- बेतरतीब
- बिखरा हुआ
🇩🇪 zusammengewürfelt
🇮🇩 acakan
🇺🇦 розрізнений
🇵🇱 zróżnicowany
🇯🇵 混成の
🇫🇷 hétéroclite
🇪🇸 desorganizado
🇹🇷 dağınık
🇰🇷 잡동사니의
🇸🇦 مبعثر
🇨🇿 složité
🇸🇰 zmiešaný
🇨🇳 杂乱的
🇸🇮 raznolika
🇮🇸 blanda
🇰🇿 аралас
🇬🇪 ბევრი სახეობის
🇦🇿 qarışıq
🇲🇽 desorganizado
Word origin
The word 'ragtag' originates from the combination of the words 'rag' and 'tag.' The term 'rag' refers to a piece of cloth, often worn or torn, symbolizing something shabby or in a state of disrepair. Meanwhile, 'tag' can denote a label or identifier. Together, 'ragtag' was used to describe a collection of mismatched items or people, often in a state of disarray. The word gained prominence in the early 19th century, taking on a more figurative meaning over time to emphasize the chaotic or eclectic nature of a group. It encapsulates the notion of individuals coming together despite their differences, often in pursuit of a common goal or mission. Over the years, 'ragtag' has been utilized in both military contexts, referring to an untrained group, as well as in casual conversations to describe eclectic gatherings of friends or informal teams.