Pronunciation: [skɹˈʌfɪ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "scruffy" is based on its pronunciation in American English, which is /ˈskrʌfi/ (skruh-fee). The phonetic transcription indicates that the word's first syllable is stressed and pronounced with a "sk" sound. The second syllable has a short "uh" vowel sound, followed by an "f" and a long "ee" sound. "Scruffy" means shabby or unkempt and is often used to describe people or animals with messy appearances.
Scruffy is an adjective used to describe something or someone who appears untidy, messy, or unkempt. The term typically implies a lack of care or attention to personal grooming or maintenance. When referring to a person, it suggests a disheveled appearance, often characterized by unkempt hair, wrinkled or stained clothing, and an overall unpolished or neglected look. Scruffy can also pertain to the manner in which something is presented or maintained, such as a place or object.
In the context of one's physical appearance, scruffy portrays a lack of cleanliness or neatness, usually associated with a casual, laid-back, or nonchalant attitude. Individuals with a scruffy appearance might have uncombed or unwashed hair, beards or facial hair that is unkempt, and may wear clothes that are crumpled, stained, or worn out. This term can also be applied to animals, particularly pets, to describe their disheveled or shabby appearance.
When referring to places or objects, scruffy often signifies a lack of order, tidiness, or attention to maintenance. It suggests an atmosphere or environment that is untidy, cluttered, or in a state of disrepair. For example, a scruffy room may have scattered belongings, dirty surfaces, and a general sense of disorder. Likewise, a scruffy object could be perceived as old, worn, faded, or dilapidated.
Overall, "scruffy" portrays an image of unkemptness, informality, and a somewhat neglected or disordered state, whether in reference to a person, place, or object.
The word "scruffy" is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. It is derived from the dialectal term "scruff", which refers to the back of the neck. The term describes the untidy appearance of someone, particularly their unkempt hair or clothing. Over time, "scruffy" became widely used to describe things or people that lack cleanliness, neatness, or tidiness.
