ruff

[rʌf]

ruff Definition

  • 1a projecting starched frill worn around the neck, characteristic of Elizabethan and Jacobean costume
  • 2a Eurasian sandpiper with a distinctive broad, shallow beak, typically found in wetlands

Using ruff: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ruff" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The actor wore a ruff in the play to represent the Elizabethan era.

  • Example

    The ruff bird is known for its unique beak and can be found in wetlands.

ruff Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for ruff

Phrases with ruff

  • play rough

    to behave aggressively or without restraint

    Example

    The kids were playing rough in the park and ended up getting hurt.

  • to cause offense or annoyance to someone

    Example

    His comments on social media ruffled some feathers among his followers.

  • a physical fight or scuffle

    Example

    The boys got into a rough and tumble on the playground.

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Summary: ruff in Brief

The term 'ruff' [rʌf] has two distinct meanings. The first refers to a stiff, frilly collar worn around the neck, commonly seen in Elizabethan and Jacobean costumes. The second refers to a type of sandpiper bird with a broad, shallow beak that can be found in wetlands. The phrases 'play rough,' 'ruffle feathers,' and 'rough and tumble' are idiomatic expressions that use the word 'rough' to describe aggressive or combative behavior.

How do native speakers use this expression?