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Definition of raffish

raffish

/ˈræf.ɪʃ/
raf · fish
Adverb:raffishly
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raffish Lexical Profile

raffish Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Unconventional and slightly disreputable in an attractive, carefree, or rakish manner.

Example

"He wore his fedora at a raffish angle and greeted the guests with a charming grin."

2

Marked by vulgarity, tawdriness, or low character; disreputable.

Example

"The novel vividly portrays the raffish underworld of nineteenth-century port towns."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for raffish
Antonyms
View all antonyms for raffish

Word Nuance & Usage

While originally meaning vulgar or disreputable, 'raffish' is now most commonly used with affectionate approval to describe someone or something with a carefree, slightly rakish, or bohemian charm.

• Rhymes for raffish

• Nearby Words

radium
radius
radon
raffish
raffle
rafflesia
raft

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 18th century from the noun 'raff' (meaning rubbish or the rabble, as preserved in 'riffraff') combined with the suffix '-ish'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Raffish. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/raffish
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