hoodlum

IPA

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Dictionary definition of hoodlum

An individual, typically a young person, who engages in criminal or antisocial activities.
"The gang of hoodlums terrorized the peaceful park, causing distress to the visitors."

Detailed meaning of hoodlum

It is used to describe a person who is involved in illegal behavior, violence, or disruptive actions within a community. Hoodlums are often associated with gangs, vandalism, street crime, or other forms of delinquency. They may display aggressive behavior, disregard for the law, and a general lack of respect for societal norms. The term "hoodlum" carries a negative connotation and is often used to denote individuals who pose a threat to public safety and peaceful coexistence. Law enforcement agencies and community organizations work together to address and prevent the activities of hoodlums, aiming to promote safety and reduce criminal behavior within neighborhoods and communities.

Example sentences containing hoodlum

1. The neighborhood has been dealing with an increase in hoodlum activity lately.
2. The police arrested several hoodlums involved in the recent vandalism spree.
3. The local community is working together to prevent young people from becoming hoodlums.
4. The store owner installed security cameras to deter hoodlums from loitering around the premises.
5. The concerned citizens formed a neighborhood watch group to keep an eye out for hoodlum activity.
6. The school implemented anti-bullying programs to address the issue of potential hoodlum behavior.

History and etymology of hoodlum

The term 'hoodlum' has an intriguing etymology that traces back to the American West in the late 19th century. While its exact origins are somewhat disputed, it is believed to have emerged as a blend of two words: 'hoodoo' and 'loafer.' 'Hoodoo' was a slang term used to describe someone who brought bad luck or misfortune, often associated with superstitions and negative omens. 'Loafer' referred to someone who was idle or lazy. When these two words merged into 'hoodlum,' it took on a derogatory connotation to describe a young person, often from disadvantaged backgrounds, who engaged in criminal or antisocial activities and was perceived as a troublemaker or a source of bad luck in the community. The term 'hoodlum' eventually became a common descriptor for delinquent individuals in American slang.

Quiz: Find the meaning of hoodlum

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Further usage examples of hoodlum

1. The police patrolled the area to maintain order and discourage hoodlums from causing trouble.
2. The community organized a town hall meeting to discuss strategies for reducing hoodlum-related incidents.
3. The local authorities are determined to crack down on hoodlums and restore a sense of safety.
4. The graffiti on the walls was evidence of hoodlum presence in the area.
5. The concerned parents urged the school administration to take immediate action against the hoodlums who were harassing their children.
6. The neighborhood was plagued by a gang of unruly hoodlums.
7. The police apprehended the hoodlum responsible for the vandalism.
8. He tried to reform the young hoodlums through mentorship.
9. The hoodlum's actions landed him in juvenile detention.
10. The park was once a haven for hoodlums, but now it's safe.
11. The community came together to address the hoodlum problem.
12. A group of hoodlums loitered near the convenience store.
13. The school implemented programs to prevent students from becoming hoodlums.
14. The hoodlum was known for causing trouble in the area.
15. She hoped to steer her brother away from the path of a hoodlum.
16. The local businesses suffered from the actions of teenage hoodlums.
17. The police were determined to apprehend the gang's leader, a notorious hoodlum.
18. He was a reformed hoodlum who now worked to help at-risk youth.
19. The graffiti on the wall was the work of neighborhood hoodlums.
20. The neighborhood watch aimed to deter hoodlum activity.
21. The hoodlum's arrest was a relief for the community.
22. The hoodlum's family tried to get him back on the right track.
23. The school counselor reached out to troubled students to prevent hoodlum behavior.
24. He was once a notorious hoodlum but had turned his life around.
25. A gang of hoodlums roamed the streets, causing chaos and fear.