Definition

Having a messy or untidy appearance; not neat or clean.

Example

The dog looked scruffier than before after playing in the mud.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I think my dog looks a bit scruffier after his last trip to the park.

Yeah, he definitely rolled in something messy, didn't he?

I guess I should give him a bath today to clean him up.

Good idea! He'll look much better once he's all fresh and fluffy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Scruffier → It is formed from "scruff" (from the dialectal term meaning the back of the neck or the scruff of an animal) and the suffix "-ier" (meaning more). The word "scruffier" means more scruffy or untidy, often referring to a disheveled appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'scruff' which refers to a messy or untidy area, and remember that 'scruffier' means more messy or disheveled.

Visually Confused Words