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Behavior and Conduct, Community and Society, Damage and Destruction, Danger and Threat, Disdain and Contempt, Disgust and Aversion, Hostility and Opposition

delinquent,hoodlum,miscreant,rogue,ruffian,thug

eb68db_159718765d454400a4adf50a32acc926.mp3

bully,rowdy,troublemaker,troublemonger,vandal,yob

ruffian, peacemaker, mediator, law-abider

The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

hooligan

IPA

How to pronounce hooligan (audio)

Dictionary definition of hooligan

A person, typically a young individual, who engages in rowdy, aggressive, or disorderly behavior, often in a group setting.
"The soccer match turned chaotic when hooligans from rival teams clashed in the stands."

Detailed meaning of hooligan

Hooligans are known for their involvement in disruptive activities, such as vandalism, violence, or public disturbances. The term is commonly associated with unruly behavior exhibited during sporting events, particularly football matches, where hooliganism has historically been prevalent. Hooligans often form organized groups or gangs, known as "hooligan firms," and engage in confrontations with rival groups, resulting in conflicts and clashes. The actions of hooligans can lead to property damage, injuries, and a general disruption of public order. Authorities and law enforcement agencies take measures to prevent and control hooliganism, including increased security measures and stricter regulations. The term "hooligan" carries a negative connotation and is used to describe individuals who pose a threat to public safety and the peaceful enjoyment of communal spaces.

Example sentences containing hooligan

1. The hooligan vandalized the bus stop, leaving a trail of destruction behind.
2. The police were called to deal with a group of rowdy hooligans causing trouble in the park.
3. Despite warnings, the hooligan continued to disrupt the peaceful protest with aggressive behavior.
4. The hooligan's reckless driving endangered the lives of innocent pedestrians.
5. The local community organized a campaign to tackle the issue of hooliganism in the neighborhood.
6. The hooligan's graffiti tags covered the walls of abandoned buildings throughout the city.

History and etymology of hooligan

The word 'hooligan' has a fascinating etymology that can be traced back to the late 19th century in London, England. It is widely believed to have originated from the Irish surname 'Houlihan' or 'Hooligan,' which was common among Irish immigrants in London at the time. The term was initially used to describe rowdy and unruly Irish street gangs in the city. Over time, 'hooligan' evolved into a broader term, referring to any person, typically a young individual, who engages in rowdy, aggressive, or disorderly behavior, often in a group setting. The association with the Irish surname reflects the historical prejudice and stereotypes faced by Irish immigrants in London during this period, leading to the coining of this term to describe disruptive behavior.

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Further usage examples of hooligan

1. The hooligan's loud and offensive chants disrupted the tranquility of the peaceful demonstration.
2. The pub owner had to hire security guards to prevent hooligans from causing trouble during live music performances.
3. The hooligan's gang engaged in frequent acts of violence and intimidation in the area.
4. The football club implemented strict measures to prevent hooligans from entering the stadium.
5. The hooligan's aggressive behavior towards fellow passengers resulted in his removal from the train.
6. The hooligans disrupted the peaceful protest with their antics.
7. The soccer match turned violent due to a group of rowdy hooligans.
8. The hooligan was arrested for vandalizing public property.
9. The neighborhood was fed up with the constant presence of hooligans.
10. The authorities cracked down on the hooliganism at the stadium.
11. A gang of hooligans caused chaos in the city center.
12. The bar owner called the police to handle the unruly hooligans.
13. The school had a zero-tolerance policy for hooligan behavior.
14. The hooligans were known for their disruptive antics in class.
15. He tried to reform the hooligan by offering mentorship.
16. The hooligan's parents were called to address his behavior.
17. The city council implemented measures to curb hooliganism.
18. The hooligan faced consequences for assaulting a fellow student.
19. The hooligan was caught on camera during the vandalism spree.
20. The hooligan apologized for his actions and promised to change.
21. The police arrested several hooligans after the bar brawl.
22. The hooligan's actions resulted in a ban from the stadium.
23. The local community organized events to divert hooligan youth.
24. Hooligan behavior often leads to trouble with the law.
25. A group of hooligans vandalized the park, leaving a mess behind.

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