ruffianize

verb

ruf·​fi·​an·​ize
-ˌnīz
-ed/-ing/-s

intransitive verb

: to act in a ruffianly manner

transitive verb

: to make ruffianly

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of ruffianize was in 1833

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Dictionary Entries Near ruffianize

Cite this Entry

“Ruffianize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ruffianize. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

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