More ruffian is a phrase that denotes someone who is even more violent and aggressive. In terms of phonetics, the word "ruffian" is pronounced as /ˈrʌfiən/. The initial 'r' sound is rolled, and the first syllable has a short 'u' sound. The combination of 'ff' creates a strong emphasis on the 'f' sound. The second syllable contains a long 'i' sound and the final syllable has an unstressed schwa sound. The spelling of this word is consistent with English pronunciation rules, despite the unusual combination of letters.
The word "ruffian" first appeared in English in the late 16th century, deriving from the Middle French word "rufian". The etymology of "rufian" is further traced back to the Old Italian word "rufiano", meaning a pimp or a person living on the street. Ultimately, the Italian term is believed to have originated from the Old French word "rufe", which referred to a filthy, unkempt person. Over time, the meaning of "ruffian" evolved to describe a violent or brutal person, particularly one involved in criminal activities. The addition of "more" as a prefix creates the comparative form, indicating an increased level of ruffian-like behavior.