Definitions

1. noun

A person who is considered to be effeminate or of questionable masculinity, often used to imply that the person does not conform to traditional masculine norms.

“The term ‘ruffiano’ is often used to describe men who wear makeup or have other characteristics associated with femininity.”

2. noun

An effeminate or foppish man, especially in the 17th and 18th centuries.

“In 18th-century literature, the term ‘ruffiano’ was used to describe a man who was overly concerned with his appearance and mannerisms.”