plug-ugly
/'plʌg,ʌgli/
Definition
Noun: A plug-ugly is a person, typically a man, who is a bully or a ruffian, especially one who intimidates or preys upon people who are weaker.
Usage
The term "plug-ugly" is used to describe a violent, thuggish, and often intimidating individual. It is an informal, somewhat dated slang term, often with historical connotations of urban gang members.
Examples
- The bar owner hired a couple of plug-uglies to stand at the door and discourage trouble.
- In the old neighborhood, everyone knew to avoid the alley where the local plug-uglies gathered.
- He wasn't just rude; he was a genuine plug-ugly who enjoyed pushing people around.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used attributively (like an adjective) before another noun.
- The politician was surrounded by plug-ugly bodyguards.
Variants and Related Words
- Plug-uglies (plural noun): The collective term for such individuals, famously used as the name for a 19th-century Baltimore street gang.
Synonyms
- Bully
- Ruffian
- Thug
- Hooligan
- Tough
- Goon
Antonyms
- Protector
- Guardian
- Peacemaker
Related Idioms/Phrases
- To strong-arm: To use force or threats, a behavior characteristic of a plug-ugly.
- They tried to strong-arm him into signing the contract.
Noun
-
someone who bullies weaker people
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