Definition

The behavior or actions of a violent or lawless person, often associated with roughness or brutality.

Example

The ruffianism displayed by the gang caused fear among the residents.

Conversation

Have you noticed that ruffianism seems to be on the rise in the city lately?

Yeah, it's pretty alarming how some people behave these days.

I mean, what happened to good old-fashioned manners?

Exactly! It's frustrating to see so much ruffianism around.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ruffianism → It is formed from "ruffian" (from Middle French *ruffian*, meaning a scoundrel or a violent person) and "-ism" (a suffix used to denote a practice or a characteristic). The word "ruffianism" refers to the behavior or practices associated with being a ruffian, often implying violence or lawlessness.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'ruffian' as someone who behaves violently or unlawfully, and the '-ism' indicates a characteristic or practice. This helps you remember that 'ruffianism' refers to the behavior typical of a ruffian.

Visually Confused Words