scruff
/skrʌf/
noun
- The back of the neck, especially the loose skin on the back of an animal's neck.
- He grabbed the dog by the scruff to keep it from running into the street.
- The vet held the rabbit gently by the scruff to give it a shot.
- The mother cat carried her kitten by the scruff of its neck.
- A person who is untidy, shabby, or rough in appearance (informal).
- A scruff wandered into the café, looking for spare change.
- The old scruff at the park always wore a torn coat and a dirty hat.
- Don't be such a scruff—comb your hair and tuck in your shirt.