adjective
- having the characteristics of a ruffian; violent, brutal, or lawless
Usage: somewhat archaic
adverb
- in a ruffianly manner; violently or brutally
Usage: somewhat archaic
Examples
- The gang’s ruffianly behavior terrorized the neighborhood.
- His ruffianly appearance made people cross the street to avoid him.
- The soldiers acted ruffianly toward the captured prisoners.
- She was shocked by his ruffianly treatment of the servants.
- The tavern was known for its ruffianly clientele.
- He spoke ruffianly to anyone who disagreed with him.