Ruffian: meaning, definitions and examples

This word describes someone who is violent and rough, often used in a literary or historical context.

• The queen's guards captured the ruffian who threatened the royal family.
• In the old town, ruffians roamed the streets causing trouble.

Describes a violent criminal or someone who uses violence to get what they want; often used in a negative context.

• The thug was arrested for robbery and assault.
• He was intimidated by a group of thugs demanding money.

It refers to someone who habitually intimidates or harms others, especially in school or workplace settings.

• The school introduced a new program to stop bullies.
• Jake stood up to the bully who was picking on his friend.

Refers to a young troublemaker or a member of a gang; often used informally.

• The movie depicted a group of hoodlums causing chaos in the city.
• Local businesses were tired of hoodlums vandalizing their property.

Used to describe someone who is violent or behaves in a criminal and rough manner. Has a negative connotation and is often used when referring to threatening or unlawful behavior.

• The ruffian threatened the shopkeeper with a knife.
• A group of ruffians were causing trouble in the neighborhood.

Generally used to describe someone who is tough and rowdy, often associated with manual labor or blue-collar jobs. It can be used neutrally or positively to denote someone hardworking and robust.

• He worked as a roughneck on the oil rig for most of his life.
• Despite his roughneck appearance, he was kind-hearted.

Often used to describe a large and physically strong person who can be intimidating because of their size. Typically, it does not carry the criminal implication but rather emphasizes physical strength.

• The bouncer at the bar was a real bruiser.
• If you need someone to move heavy furniture, call on Bill; he's quite the bruiser.

Describes noisy and disorderly behavior, often in a playful or exuberant way. It can be used both negatively and positively depending on the situation.

• The teenagers were getting a bit rowdy at the party.
• The crowd at the sports bar became rowdy after the team won the game.