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Scruffily: meaning, definitions and examples

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scruffily

 

[ ˈskrʌf.ɪ.li ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

appearance, manner

Scruffily refers to a way of being that is messy, unkempt, or disheveled. It describes someone or something that appears untidy or in a state of disarray. Often used to refer to clothing or grooming, scruffily conveys a casual or relaxed attitude towards appearance, sometimes indicating a lack of concern for self-presentation. This adverb suggests a rugged charm or a disregard for societal standards of neatness.

Synonyms

casual, disheveled, messy, unkempt

Examples of usage

  • He looked scruffily dressed for the formal event.
  • The dog ran around the park, scruffily fur-covered and playful.
  • She lived scruffily, often forgetting to clean her room.
  • They enjoyed scruffily camping trips in the woods.

Translations

Translations of the word "scruffily" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desleixadamente

🇮🇳 बेतरतीब तरीके से

🇩🇪 unordentlich

🇮🇩 kotor

🇺🇦 неохайно

🇵🇱 niechlujnie

🇯🇵 だらしなく

🇫🇷 négligemment

🇪🇸 desordenadamente

🇹🇷 dağınık bir şekilde

🇰🇷 어수선하게

🇸🇦 بشكل غير مرتب

🇨🇿 nepořádně

🇸🇰 neporiadne

🇨🇳 凌乱地

🇸🇮 neurejeno

🇮🇸 óskipulega

🇰🇿 бұзылған түрде

🇬🇪 ბევრი უხარისხოდ

🇦🇿 qarışıq şəkildə

🇲🇽 desordenadamente

Word origin

The word scruffily derives from the adjective 'scruffy,' which has its origins in the late 19th century. It is believed to have come from the noun 'scruff,' which means the back of the neck or the area around the nape. The term 'scruff' likely evolved from the Middle English word 'scruf', referring to a rough surface or shaggy appearance. 'Scruffy' originally described something that had a rough or unkempt quality. The adverbial form 'scruffily' was formed by adding the suffix '-ly' to 'scruffy', indicating the manner in which an action is done. Over time, this term has been used to characterize styles and behaviors that prioritize comfort and ease over formality and precision, reflecting a cultural shift towards valuing individuality rather than conformity.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,011, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.