Meaning & Definition of word "Hoodlum"

Hoodlum

/ˈhʊd.ləm/

1. A person who engages in criminal or unruly behavior; a delinquent or ruffian.
- Example: The police arrested a group of hoodlums for vandalizing the school.
2. A member of a gang or group involved in criminal activities.
- Example: He was known in the neighborhood as a hoodlum who always caused trouble.
3. A young person who is mischievous or behaves in a disruptive manner.
- Example: The hoodlums were caught throwing rocks at passing cars.
4. Someone who is considered to be uneducated or uncultured.
- Example: Despite his tough exterior, he was more than just a hoodlum; he had a passion for literature.

The origin of the word is uncertain; possibly from the German word 'hudelt' meaning 'to hang out' or from the 1890s slang in the U.S.

street hoodlum:

A young person involved in petty crime or gang activity.

hoodlum activity:

Actions or behaviors characteristic of criminal behavior.

hoodlum culture:

A subculture associated with gangs and violent youth.

delinquent:

A young person who regularly performs illegal or antisocial acts.

gangster:

A member of a gang, especially one involved in organized crime.

ruffian:

A violent person, especially one who is part of a gang.

Meaning: Brawler

Example Sentence: He's known as a brawler in the neighborhood.

Meaning: Punk

Example Sentence: That punk is always causing trouble around here.