Basic Details
Word: Scruffy
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Untidy or shabby in appearance; looking messy or unkempt.
Synonyms: Untidy, shabby, unkempt, dishevelled
Antonyms: Neat, tidy, smart, well-groomed
Idioms and Phrases
- Look scruffy: To appear messy or untidy. Example: "He forgot to comb his hair and arrived at school looking scruffy."
- Scruff of the neck: A term used to describe holding someone by the back of the neck, often implying a reprimanding manner. Example: "The dog was caught in trouble, and the owner picked it up by the scruff of the neck."
Usage Examples
Example 1: After a long day of playing outside, the children came home with scruffy clothes and muddy faces.
Example 2: The old sofa looked scruffy with its worn-out cushions and faded fabric.
Example 3: Her scruffy appearance did not match the elegant event she attended, but she felt comfortable nonetheless.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "scruffy" originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the word "scruff," which refers to the back of the neck, often used to describe rough or shabby appearance?
Famous Quote
"Fashion is about dressing according to what's fashionable. Style is about being yourself." Oscar de la Renta. This quote highlights that being scruffy can sometimes express one's unique style rather than following trends.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "scruffy" mean?
a) Very clean
b) Messy in appearance
c) Very formal
d) Very expensive
Answer: b) Messy in appearance
2. Which of these is a synonym of "scruffy"?
a) Tidy
b) Shabby
c) Smart
d) Clean
Answer: b) Shabby
3. Which sentence uses "scruffy" correctly?
a) The scruffy house looked newly built.
b) He always looks scruffy when he wears his best clothes.
c) The puppy was scruffy after playing in the mud.
d) She looked scruffy in her new dress.
Answer: c) The puppy was scruffy after playing in the mud.
4. Which idiom means appearing messy?
a) Scruff of the neck
b) Look scruffy
c) High and dry
d) In the pink
Answer: b) Look scruffy
5. What is the opposite of "scruffy"?
a) Tidy
b) Rough
c) Untidy
d) Old
Answer: a) Tidy
