Scruffy

ˈskrəfē

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Tattered or shabby in appearance; unkempt.

He looked scruffy in his old jeans and a worn-out t-shirt.

Having a rough or unpolished quality.

The scruffy garden was filled with wildflowers and weeds.

Being dirty or disheveled.

The scruffy dog needed a bath and a good grooming.

Ragged in behavior or appearance.

Her scruffy demeanor did not match the elegant event she was attending.

The word 'scruffy' possibly derives from the earlier verb 'scruff', meaning to be rough or shabby.

scruffy-looking

Appearing untidy or disorganized.

scruffy dog

A dog that is matted or looks unkempt.

unkempt

Not properly cared for; messy.

disheveled

In disarray; untidy.

shaggy

Having long, rough hair.

Looking like a bum or homeless.

He showed up to the party looking scruffy, like he just rolled out of bed.

Unfashionable or out-of-style.

Wearing those scruffy shoes won’t impress anyone.