Raffish
/ˈræf.ɪʃ/noun
Having a careless, slightly disreputable, and unconventional style or manner.
Did you know?Raffish is thought to come from older slang tied to the idea of the 'raff' or 'raff and ruffians,' a label for disreputable people, showing how language can turn social contempt into a fashionable vibe.
Etymological Timeline
Early Modern English
English
raff
“Rabble, refuse, or disreputable people.”
18th Century
English
raffish
“Resembling raff; low, vulgar, or disreputable in manner or appearance.”
18th Century
English
raffish
“Later softened to mean stylishly unconventional, with a hint of disreputable charm.”
Modern English
English
raffish
“Carelessly stylish, unconventional, and slightly disreputable.”