Synonyms of hooligans

hooligans

noun

plural of hooligan

as in thugs

a violent, brutal person who is often a member of an organized gang

London bobbies clearing the streets of hooligans

Synonyms & Similar Words

• thugs
• criminals
• gangsters
• bandits
• villains
• hoodlums
• pirates
• thieves
• ruffians
• assassins
• rowdies
• offenders
• punks
• bullies
• goons
• toughs
• mobsters
• gorillas
• hoods
• yobs
• roughnecks
• yobbos
• gangbangers
• gangstas
• perpetrators
• toughies
• scoundrels
• robbers
• outlaws
• plug-uglies
• brigands
• vandals
• lawbreakers
• crooks
• cutthroats
• felons
• mugs
• highwaymen
• desperadoes
• gunmen
• racketeers
• mafiosi
• malefactors
• swindlers
• pickpockets
• perps
• bravos
• juvenile delinquents
• tearaways

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of hooligans

There’s still time to make the most of your Southern summer, with old-fashioned traditions to help you—and perhaps a few other neighborhood hooligans from back in the day—feel like a kid again. — Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 22 July 2026

Andric argued that former soccer players targeted by hooligans were indeed a social group deserving protection, but the judges didn’t buy it. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2026

But the victims were labeled as hooligans, and many survivors and victims' families felt the government had not done enough to investigate. — Lauren Frayer, NPR, 9 July 2026

Another problem identified by the immigration law judge was that a social group consisting of Serbian soccer players who are victims of violence from soccer hooligans is too fluid. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 2 July 2026

The actions of hooligans following the Knicks championship is inexcusable. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 17 June 2026

Not only were hooligans running riot every week, but the grounds weren’t fit for purpose, and attendances were locked into a sustained nosedive. — Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 23 May 2026

But Bruce stands apart from his fellow hooligans. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 22 Apr. 2026

Passengers could only stare out the windows as about a dozen hooligans jumped atop the bus while others sprayed it with graffiti, including on the bus' windshield. — Peter D'abrosca, FOXNews.com, 30 Mar. 2026