raggedy

Raggedy is an informal English adjective meaning ragged, shabby, or worn, often used to describe clothing, surfaces, or a person’s appearance. The term can carry a sense of roughness or handmade quality and may evoke nostalgia or affection in certain contexts.

The name is closely associated with Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy, two fictional rag dolls created by Johnny Gruelle in the early 20th century. Raggedy Ann Stories, the first book in the franchise, introduced the characters in print around 1918, and the dolls became a popular merchandising phenomenon. The figures are typically depicted with red yarn hair, triangle noses, and simple outfits, and their adventures emphasize kindness, imagination, and moral lessons. The franchise expanded to books, toys, and other media, leaving a lasting imprint on American children’s culture.

Beyond the specific characters, raggedy is used in everyday language to describe irregular, uneven, or weathered things, or to evoke a rustic, handmade feel. The word remains informal and somewhat quaint or affectionate in tone, and is more common in spoken language or casual writing than in formal contexts.

In summary, Raggedy denotes rough or homemade quality in general usage and is widely recognized through the Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy franchise, where it underscores the dolls’ ragged, childlike charm.