riffraff
|riff/raff|
C1
/ˈrɪfˌræf/
disreputable people
Etymology
Etymology Information
'riffraff' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'rif and raf,' where 'rif' meant 'to plunder' and 'raf' meant 'to carry off.'
Historical Evolution
'rif and raf' transformed into the modern English word 'riffraff' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to plunder and carry off,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'disreputable people.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
people regarded as disreputable or undesirable.
The party was filled with riffraff from the neighborhood.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41