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scruffy

C2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /skrˈʌfi/

US

  • /ˈskrəfi/

Description

Imagine a beloved dog who loves rolling in the dirt - that's scruffy! It describes someone or something that looks untidy, messy, and a little rough around the edges. A scruffy beard is not neatly trimmed; a scruffy coat may look old and worn. It does not always mean dirty, just not well cared for. Think of a friendly adventurer in a story with messy hair and worn clothes - they might be described as scruffy.

The word often has an endearing feel, like someone who is too busy living life to worry much about appearance. A scruffy stray kitten might look sad, but also tough and lovable. It can also describe things that are worn but still usable - like a scruffy old backpack that has been taken on many trips.

Examples

  1. 1

    Clothing

    He arrived in a scruffy T-shirt and dirty trainers.

  2. 2

    Travel fatigue

    After the long flight, I felt tired and looked scruffy.

  3. 3

    Animal appearance

    A scruffy little dog followed us down the street.

  4. 4

    Cheap hotel

    The hotel was cheap, clean enough, and slightly scruffy.

  5. 5

    Affectionate place

    I like that scruffy cafe near the station because it has character.

    • Usage

      scruffy can sound slightly affectionate for a simple, untidy place

Forms and spellings

3 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • scruffyadjective

Forms

  • scruffiercomparativeadjective
  • scruffiestsuperlativeadjective