scruffy

[ skruhf-ee ]

adjective

scruffier, scruffiest.

1. untidy; shabby.

scruffy

/ ˈskrʌfɪ /

adjective

1. unkempt or shabby

Word History and Origins

Origin of scruffy¹

First recorded in 1650–60; scruff ² + -y ¹

Example Sentences

It now searches for a new identity, as its residents wake up to the post-Assad reality and the thousands of scruffy, bearded militants who have — seemingly overnight — sprouted at every major intersection and state institution.

From Los Angeles Times

"Yet the place looks scruffy and untidy and gets worse year after year, all while FirstPort keep putting their charges up," she added.

From BBC

That’s why watching swearing Aussies fall in love while they care for a scruffy pup with wheel-aided hind legs is the soothing balm our brains need right now.

From Los Angeles Times

Ivy says his scruffy beard and “menopause cardigan” make him look like a “ghetto Papa Smurf.”

From Los Angeles Times

A man with a scruffy beard and cutoff sweatpants who declined to give his name, said that he didn’t think the candidate’s time in fast food was of “merit.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• seedy
• shabby
• tacky
• tattered
• threadbare
• unkempt