scruffy
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /skrˈʌfi/
US
- /ˈskrəfi/
Description
- Untidy
- Messy
- Rough-looking
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.
"Scruffy" is a descriptive word for someone or something that looks untidy, unkempt, and not very polished. It goes beyond simply being messy; it often suggests a rough, worn, or poorly cared-for look. Think of a scruffy patch of grass that has not been mowed in weeks, or a scruffy old pair of boots that have seen better days.
The word is often used for appearance. An animal with fur that has not been brushed may look scruffy. A person might be described this way if they have not shaved in a while, their clothes are wrinkled, and their hair is uncombed. It can also describe places or objects that look neglected or worn, such as a scruffy yard, a scruffy jacket, or a scruffy little shop. But "scruffy" is not always fully negative. Very often, it suggests a kind of charm, warmth, or realness as well.
So, while "scruffy" generally points to a lack of neatness, it often carries a hint of charm or personality. It can describe a lovable dog, a tired traveler, a worn coat, or a small place that looks a bit run-down but full of life. In that way, the word does not just mean messy - it often tells a small story about hard use, little concern for appearance, or a rough kind of appeal.
Examples
- 1
Clothing
He arrived in a scruffy T-shirt and dirty trainers.
- 2
Travel fatigue
After the long flight, I felt tired and looked scruffy.
- 3
Animal appearance
A scruffy little dog followed us down the street.
- 4
Cheap hotel
The hotel was cheap, clean enough, and slightly scruffy.
- 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