Definition

The most untidy or messy in appearance, often referring to clothing or hair.

Example

He looked the scruffiest of all his friends at the party.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I can't believe you wore that scruffiest hoodie to the party last night.

What? It's super comfortable!

True, but you could have at least dressed up a little.

Maybe, but I like being casual and relaxed.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Scruffiest → It is formed from "scruffy" (from the dialectal English "scruff", meaning the nape of the neck or a dirty, unkempt appearance) and the suffix "-est" (meaning most). The word "scruffiest" means having the most unkempt or dirty appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who looks the most 'unkempt' or 'dirty' — 'scruffy' describes that look, and '-est' indicates the highest degree.

Visually Confused Words