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Ruffle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ruffle

[หˆrสŒf(ษ™)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

hair

To disturb the smoothness or regular arrangement of something, especially hair.

Synonyms

dishevel, mess up, tousle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ruffle

Best used when something is slightly disturbed or agitated, often to describe feathers or hair. It can also imply causing mild annoyance or agitation.

  • The wind ruffled her hair as she stood on the cliff
  • He tried to ruffle his opponent's confidence with a sly remark
dishevel

Appropriate for describing something that is untidy or in disarray, particularly hair, clothing, or appearance in general.

  • After the long journey, his clothes were disheveled and his hair was a mess
  • She appeared disheveled, as if she had just woken up
mess up

Commonly used in a casual context to describe making a mistake, causing disarray, or ruining something. It has a negative connotation when referring to actions or situations.

  • Don't mess up this opportunityโ€”it's really important
  • She accidentally messed up the neatly organized files
tousle

Often used affectionately or playfully, especially when referring to making hair slightly untidy in a way that is seen as charming or endearing.

  • She tousled her son's hair affectionately
  • His tousled look gave him a carefree and approachable vibe

Examples of usage

  • She ruffled her hair before going out.
  • The wind ruffled the surface of the lake.
Context #2 | Verb

feathers

To make a bird's feathers stand on end, typically as a display of aggression or excitement.

Synonyms

fluff up, proud, puff up.

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Word Description / Examples
ruffle

To create small waves or disturbances on a surface, like water or fabric. Can also relate to causing a slight commotion.

  • A pebble ruffled the surface of the pond
  • She ruffled the fabric of her dress
fluff up

To make something soft and fluffy, often used with pillows, blankets, or feathers.

  • She fluffed up the pillows before lying down
  • The bird fluffed up its feathers
puff up

To swell or expand with air, often used to describe someone who is feeling self-important or showing off in a somewhat negative manner. Can also describe objects swelling.

  • He puffed up with pride when he was praised
  • The dough puffed up nicely in the oven
proud

To feel deep satisfaction or pride in one's achievements or the achievements of someone close. Has a positive connotation.

  • He was proud of his daughter for graduating
  • She felt proud of her artwork

Examples of usage

  • The peacock ruffled its feathers to impress the female.
  • The cardinal ruffled its feathers when another bird approached.
Context #3 | Noun

fabric

A strip of fabric gathered or pleated on one edge.

Synonyms

flounce, frill, pleat.

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Word Description / Examples
ruffle

The word 'ruffle' is listed twice, so its context and examples remain the same as previously stated.

  • The dress had a beautiful neckline with delicate ruffles.
  • His comments seemed to ruffle her calm demeanor.
flounce

Mostly used in fashion to describe wide decorative strips of fabric gathered or pleated at one edge, often seen in skirts or blouses. Can also mean to move in an exaggerated, angry way.

  • The skirt had several layers of flounce, giving it a playful look.
  • She flounced out of the room after the argument.
frill

Usually describes unnecessary or decorative additions to clothing, giving it a fancy or elaborate appearance. Can also imply something is overly complicated or fancy.

  • Her socks had little frills on the edges, making them look cute.
  • The hotel room had all the frills you could imagine, including a jacuzzi.
pleat

Commonly used to describe a fold in fabric, which is often sewn in place to create a structured, decorative pattern. Seen in skirts, pants, and curtains.

  • The pleats in her skirt made it flare out beautifully.
  • The curtains had neat pleats that added elegance to the room.

Examples of usage

  • The dress had beautiful ruffles along the hem.
  • She added a ruffle to the pillowcase for decoration.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • Ruffles were popular in the 18th century as a fashionable trim on women's dresses and men's shirts.
  • They evoke a sense of elegance and playfulness in clothing, often seen at formal events.
  • Modern fashion designers frequently use ruffles to add texture and movement to their creations.

Nature

  • Birds ruffle their feathers to regulate body temperature and display during courtship rituals.
  • The movement of ruffling serves practical purposes like shaking off water or deterring pests.
  • Leaves ruffle in the wind, creating a soothing sound that can indicate changing weather.

Games & Sports

  • In some card games, to ruffle is to shuffle the cards thoroughly to mix them up before dealing.
  • Ruffling your hair or clothes can be seen as a way to release tension in competitive sports!
  • Poker players often ruffle their chips as part of the gameโ€™s psychological tactics.

Literature

  • Ruffles often appear in poetry and literature as a metaphor for disturbance or change.
  • In children's stories, characters might ruffle their feathers as a display of personality or emotion.
  • Classic literature sometimes uses ruffling as a symbol of social disruption or rebellion.

Origin of 'ruffle'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'rufflen', which means to disturb or disorder.
  • Originally used in the 16th century, it related to the action of crumpling fabric or feathers.
  • The term has evolved to also describe a type of frilling in clothing and decor.

The word 'ruffle' originated from Middle English 'ruffelen', which meant to disorder or disturb. It first appeared in the 14th century. Over time, the word evolved to encompass various meanings related to disturbance, particularly in terms of hair or feathers. The use of 'ruffle' to describe fabric gathered or pleated on one edge emerged in the 18th century. Today, 'ruffle' remains a versatile word used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,820, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.