Definition

Noun: A violent, lawless, and often brutal person; a thug or bully. A ruffian is typically characterized by rough, aggressive behavior and a disregard for the well-being of others.

Usage and Examples

A "ruffian" is used to describe a person, almost always a man, who engages in violent, disorderly, or criminal conduct. It carries a strong negative connotation.

• The shopkeeper was threatened by a gang of ruffians demanding protection money.
• In the old tale, the noble knight defended the village from the band of ruffians.
• His polite demeanor was a mask; underneath, he was a cruel ruffian.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• The term often implies a lack of sophistication or refinement, associating the person with the lower or criminal classes.
• It can be used somewhat archaically or in literary contexts to evoke a certain time period or style, though it remains understandable in modern English.
• While typically a noun, it can function attributively as an adjective in phrases like "ruffian behavior" or "a ruffian element."

Variants and Related Words

• Ruffianly (adjective): Having the qualities of a ruffian; coarse and violent.
  • He was known for his ruffianly conduct in the taverns.

Synonyms

• Thug
• Hooligan
• Bully
• Brute
• Tough
• Rowdy
• Miscreant (more formal)

Antonyms

• Gentleman
• Law-abiding citizen
• Pacifist

Idioms and Fixed Phrases

• A band/pack/gang of ruffians: A common collocation emphasizing the group nature of the threat.
  • The peaceful protest was disrupted by a band of ruffians.

Noun

1. a cruel and brutal fellow