Ruffian

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈrÊŒfiÉ™n/

Origin

French rufien, Old French ruffen, ruffian ("pimp. libertine, rake").

Full definition of ruffian

Noun

1. A scoundrel, rascal, or unprincipled, deceitful, brutal and unreliable person.
• ShakespeareWilt thou on thy deathbed play the ruffian?
2. (obsolete) A pimp; a pander.
3. (obsolete) A lover; a paramour.
• Bishop ReynoldsHe husband is no sooner abroad than she is instantly at home, revelling with her ruffians.

Synonyms

• rogue
• scamp

Verb

1. To play the ruffian; to rage; to raise tumult.

Adjective

1. Brutal; cruel; savagely boisterous; murderous.ruffian rage

Anagrams

• funfair