The word "roughs" is commonly spelled with two "f"s, despite the fact that the "gh" sound in the word does not indicate an "f" sound. The reason for this lies in the history of the English language. In Middle English, the "gh" sound was pronounced as a guttural "k" or "ch" sound, but over time, it was lost in pronunciation. However, the spellings of many words remained the same, including "roughs". Therefore, the word is pronounced as /rʌfs/ even though it is not spelled phonetically.
Roughs, in its plural form, is a noun that refers to individuals involved in rough, violent, disruptive, or disorderly behavior. The term is often used to describe a group or gang of people who engage in aggressive or unruly activities. Roughs typically engage in actions that are considered unlawful, provocative, or socially unacceptable. Their behavior may involve physical confrontation, intimidation, threats, or acts of vandalism.
Historically, the term "roughs" gained popularity during the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in urban areas where social tensions were high. These roughs often formed in impoverished neighborhoods or areas marked by poverty, crime, and social unrest. They may have been associated with criminal activities, such as street fighting, pickpocketing, or extortion.
In contemporary usage, the term "roughs" may still be employed to describe groups or individuals involved in violent, rowdy, or disruptive behaviors. However, its usage has somewhat diminished in favor of terms like "hooligans," "thugs," or "gang members," which more explicitly highlight the criminal connotations of such behavior.
Overall, roughs are individuals who engage in disorderly conduct, acting aggressively and violently towards others. They are often associated with disruptive, criminal, or antisocial activities, and their presence can create a sense of fear and insecurity within communities.
Coarse unmannerly men; rowdies; to rough a horse, to break him in, particularly ofr military sevices; to make its shoes rough.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "roughs" is derived from the noun "rough", which is of Middle English origin. The term "rough" first appeared in the English language around the 14th century and was adapted from the Old English word "ruh", which meant "having a shaggy or unkempt appearance". Ultimately, the word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic root "rūhwaz", indicating roughness or hairiness. Over time, "rough" came to be used as both an adjective and a noun, referring to something or someone lacking smoothness or refinement. The plural form, "roughs", specifically refers to multiple rough individuals or people who are generally uncivil or unruly.