Ruffianly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ruffianly
[ˈrəfēənlē ]
Definition
behavior description
The term 'ruffianly' describes actions or behaviors that are cruel, violent, or disreputable. It conveys a sense of roughness or unlawfulness, often associated with a person who behaves like a ruffian. Such behavior is typically seen as aggressive or intimidating, lacking regard for social norms or the well-being of others. This word often paints a picture of someone who is not just unruly but also embodies a certain level of brutality or lawlessness.
Synonyms
boorish, rough, uncouth, violent.
Examples of usage
- The ruffianly gang ruled the streets with fear.
- His ruffianly attitude earned him many enemies.
- She dismissed his ruffianly behavior as just a phase.
- The film depicted a ruffianly character as the antagonist.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- The character of ruffians often appears in Shakespeare's plays, symbolizing lawlessness and disobedience.
- In Charles Dickens' novels, ruffians embody the darker side of society, often as thugs or criminals causing trouble.
- Ruffians are common in Gothic literature as antagonistic figures who disrupt social order.
History
- During the 19th century, ruffians were often associated with street gangs in major cities, engaging in violent conflicts.
- The term evolved through colonial times, linking to the unruly behavior of certain soldiers or militia units.
- Social reforms in the 1800s often targeted ruffians as part of wider efforts to control urban crime and improve public safety.
Pop Culture
- In modern media, ruffian characters are often depicted in movies as anti-heroes or villains with a rough exterior but possibly a good heart.
- Popular video games sometimes feature ruffian-like characters known for their rebellious and troublemaking traits.
- The portrayal of ruffians in cartoons often exaggerates rough behavior for comedic effect, making them memorable.
Psychology
- Ruffian-like behavior can be linked to social factors such as environment, upbringing, and peer influence.
- Studies suggest that individuals who display ruffianly traits may seek attention or validation through aggressive behavior.
- Understanding ruffian behavior can help in developing programs for youth at risk of engaging in delinquency.
Origin of 'ruffianly'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'ruffian' comes from the French word 'ruffian,' which means a rough or unruly person.
- Its origins can be traced back to the Italian word 'ruffiano,' meaning a scoundrel or an immoral person.
- Historically, it described a class of knockabout characters in Renaissance literature.
The word 'ruffian' comes from the late Middle English, derived from the Old French 'ruffian', which in turn comes from the Latin 'ruffus', meaning 'reddish', 'fiery'. Historically, it referred to a rough or uncouth person, particularly one engaged in criminal activity or disruptions of the peace. The use of 'ruffianly' as an adjective to describe actions characteristic of a ruffian likely emerged as society started to categorize behavioral norms, marking a distinction between acceptable behavior and that which was considered savage or unscrupulous. Over the centuries, the connotation of 'ruffianly' has maintained a connection to rough or brutish behavior, illustrating the persistent association of such actions with a lack of civility and moral standards.