ruffle Definition
- 1to disturb the smooth surface or arrangement of something, typically by moving it or causing it to be disturbed
- 2to annoy or upset someone
- 3a strip of fabric or lace gathered or pleated on one edge
Using ruffle: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ruffle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The wind ruffled the surface of the lake.
Example
She was ruffled by his comments.
Example
The bird ruffled its feathers.
Example
The dog ruffled through the trash can.
ruffle Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using ruffle
Example
His comment ruffled her feathers and she stormed out of the room.
Example
The new policy ruffled some feathers among the employees.
put someone's ruffles up
to annoy or upset someone
Example
His behavior put her ruffles up and she decided to leave the party.
Phrases with ruffle
ruffle collar
a collar made of a strip of fabric or lace gathered or pleated on one edge
Example
The dress had a ruffle collar that added a touch of elegance.
Example
The ruffle skirt swayed with every step she took.
Example
The ruffle blouse was perfect for the party.
Origins of ruffle
from Middle English 'roufe', meaning 'to wrinkle'
Summary: ruffle in Brief
The verb 'ruffle' [ruhf-uhl] means to disturb the smooth surface or arrangement of something, to annoy or upset someone, or a strip of fabric or lace gathered or pleated on one edge. Examples include 'The wind ruffled the surface of the lake' and 'She was ruffled by his comments.' Phrases like 'ruffle collar' and idioms like 'ruffle someone's feathers' are also common. Synonyms include 'disarrange' and 'irritate,' while antonyms include 'smooth' and 'soothe.'
