noun a violent or brutal person, especially one involved in crime
The antagonist in the movie was portrayed as a ruffian, terrorizing the townspeople.
The politician was accused of associating with ruffians to intimidate his opponents.
The ruffian in the novel was known for his violent behavior and disregard for the law.
Ruffians were often hired as muscle by organized crime groups in the 1920s.
The game features a group of ruffians as the main enemies that players must defeat.
In literature, a ruffian is often depicted as a violent or lawless character, used to create conflict and tension in a story.
Psychologists may use the term ruffian to describe a certain type of personality or behavior in their research or clinical practice.
In legal contexts, a ruffian may refer to a person who has been charged with violent or criminal behavior.
Historians may use the term ruffian to describe a certain type of social class or group in different time periods.