Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Proslavery Missourians who crossed the border to vote in Kansas became known as border ruffians; these gained the advantage by winning the territorial elections, most likely through voter fraud and illegal vote counting.

From Textbooks • Dec. 30, 2014

In 1856, clashes between antislavery Free-Soilers and border ruffians came to a head in Lawrence, Kansas.

From Textbooks • Dec. 30, 2014

Many had come from New England to ensure a numerical advantage over the border ruffians.

From Textbooks • Dec. 30, 2014

"And do you think such a paragon would go out among the border ruffians with you?"

From From Jest to Earnest by Roe, Edward Payson

He recalled her words, spoken but yesterday, it seemed: "Do you imagine that any nice girl will go out with you among the border ruffians?"

From From Jest to Earnest by Roe, Edward Payson