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ruffian

[ruhf-ee-uhn, ruhf-yuhn] / ˈrʌf i ən, ˈrʌf yən /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The trial heard him described as a "ruffian" and a "street waif" who never stood still.

From BBC • Jan. 27, 2025

The mercenary, ruffian crew Marsac recruits for assistance is clearly not to be trusted.

From Washington Post • Sep. 1, 2021

Belisle’s imagined Shiffler is no ruffian, but a well-spoken, humble youth who wants only to care for his family and win the hand of Irene Freeman, a blue-eyed Catholic orphan.

From Slate • Sep. 1, 2021

Depending on how you feel about such a pretty, pretty actor playing the role of a ruffian with a heart of gold, that might be considered a compliment to his performance.

From Salon • Dec. 21, 2019

He had risked his world, and now it was walking away from him, hand in hand with a ruffian prince.

From "The Princess Bride" by William Goldman




Vocabulary lists containing ruffian


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