Hoodlum

/ˈhʊd.ləm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who engages in criminal or unruly behavior; a delinquent or ruffian.

The police arrested a group of hoodlums for vandalizing the school.

A member of a gang or group involved in criminal activities.

He was known in the neighborhood as a hoodlum who always caused trouble.

A young person who is mischievous or behaves in a disruptive manner.

The hoodlums were caught throwing rocks at passing cars.

Someone who is considered to be uneducated or uncultured.

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.

Brawler

He's known as a brawler in the neighborhood.

Punk

That punk is always causing trouble around here.