riffraff (ˈrɪfˌræf
)
Definitions
noun (sometimes functioning as plural)
- worthless people, esp collectively; rabble
- dialect worthless rubbish
Word Origin
C15 rif and raf , from Old French rif et raf ; related to rifler to plunder, and rafle a sweeping up; see rifle², raffleUsage examples
We went back down to the party, skirting the pool away from the riffraff.
, BLOOD IS DIRT (2002)Glanville is clearly a courageous person to write off vast numbers of people as riffraff.
Spiked (2002)He doesn't want to heal rifts, he wants to bring any riffraff who disagree to heel.
The Mercury, Sunday Tasmanian (2004)If, like me, you enjoy a bit of riffraff , travel soon.
Times, Sunday Times (2002)I mean they really do let any old riffraff in these days. (Longest sigh.
, THE MAN WHO HATED FOOTBALL (2004)