noun

ralphie

rahr-FEE

Ralphie (noun) means British slang for a scruffy or unruly schoolchild. Example: “Don't be such a ralphie, tuck your shirt in.”

noun

British slang for a scruffy or unruly schoolchild.

"Don't be such a ralphie, tuck your shirt in."

How to use ralphie

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA slang, mostly regional British term for a messy or badly behaved schoolkid.

When to use it

Very informal and regional (north-east England) — most English speakers won't recognise this sense.

Word forms

ralphies plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Don't be such a _____, tuck your shirt in.

Etymology

Said to derive from Ralph Gardener's High School, a school in North Shields, England once known for its rough reputation, plus the diminutive "-ie".

Rhymes for ralphie

pie die lie tie sie vie hie i.e. brie movie eerie moxie

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Frequently asked questions

What does “ralphie” mean?

The word “ralphie” means british slang for a scruffy or unruly schoolchild. In plain terms, a slang, mostly regional British term for a messy or badly behaved schoolkid.

How do you pronounce “ralphie”?

“Ralphie” is pronounced rahr-FEE (/ɹɑːɹˈfi/ in IPA).

How do you use “ralphie” in a sentence?

Here is “ralphie” used in a sentence: “Don't be such a ralphie, tuck your shirt in.”

What part of speech is “ralphie”?

“Ralphie” is a noun.