Rowdies: meaning, definitions and examples

πŸ€Όβ€β™‚οΈ
Add to dictionary

rowdies

 

[ˈraʊdiːz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

group behavior

Rowdies are individuals who engage in disorderly or unruly behavior, often in a group setting. This term is commonly associated with fans at sporting events who create disturbances, whether through aggressive actions, loud chanting, or rowdy celebrations.

Synonyms

hooligans, rowdy crowd, ruffians, troublemakers.

Examples of usage

  • The rowdies caused a scene during the football match.
  • A group of rowdies disrupted the concert last night.
  • The rowdies were warned by security to calm down.
  • Police had to intervene to manage the rowdy crowd.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'rowdy' comes from the mid-19th century and was believed to have originated from the Scottish dialect 'roud,' meaning noisy.
  • It evolved from another term 'routy,' which referred to someone who was rough and disorderly, showing a clear link to its current meaning.
  • The usage of 'rowdy' has also been found in various contexts, often describing chaotic celebrations or events.

Cultural References

  • Rowdiness is often celebrated in music festivals and sports events where passionate and energetic fans create an electrifying atmosphere.
  • In literature and movies, rowdy characters can be depicted as the 'life of the party,' bringing excitement but also sometimes getting into trouble.
  • Many cultures have traditional festivals where rowdy behavior is part of the celebration, such as Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

Psychology

  • Group dynamics can amplify rowdiness; people often behave more energetically in groups, a phenomenon known as social facilitation.
  • Rowdy behavior can release built-up energy and stress, promoting a sense of freedom and fun among participants.
  • However, if uncontrolled, rowdiness can lead to potential conflicts, highlighting the balance between fun and disorder.

Social Dynamics

  • Rowdy behavior is often more accepted in younger crowds, where it’s seen as a sign of liveliness and enjoyment.
  • As people age, societal expectations can shift, with rowdiness often perceived as less acceptable in formal settings.
  • Many people cherish rowdy moments as bonding experiences, creating memories through collective exhilaration.

Sports

  • In sports, rowdy fans can impact player performance and boost morale, leading to home-field advantages.
  • The term 'rowdy' is frequently used to describe fan bases known for their loud cheers, chants, and sometimes chaotic celebrations.
  • Certain sports events even embrace rowdiness as part of the culture, with rituals aimed at heightening the excitement.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,969, 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.