Ruffled: meaning, definitions and examples

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ruffled

 

[ˈrʌfəld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

feeling

To disturb the smoothness or tranquility of

Synonyms

agitate, disrupt, disturb.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ruffled

This can also describe something that is physically disturbed or disrupted, like fabric, hair, or feathers.

  • The strong wind ruffled her hair as she walked along the beach
disrupt

This word fits when talking about something that causes an interruption or disturbance, leading to a breakdown in order or continuity.

  • The sudden power outage disrupted the entire operation at the factory
disturb

Use this word when referring to causing someone to feel troubled or anxious, or when interrupting something, often carrying a mildly negative connotation.

  • Please do not disturb the patients while they are resting
agitate

This word is typically used when someone or something causes worry, nervousness, or unrest, often implying emotional or mental disturbance.

  • The loud noise from the construction site really agitates the residents of the neighborhood

Examples of usage

  • The unexpected noise ruffled her concentration.
  • His harsh words ruffled her feathers.
Context #2 | Verb

appearance

To create a wavy or uneven surface

Synonyms

crease, rumple, wrinkle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ruffled

Used to describe something that has disturbed smoothness or calmness, often referring to emotions or feathers.

  • Her hair was ruffled by the wind
  • He seemed ruffled by the unexpected question
wrinkle

Commonly used to describe small lines or folds, often on skin or fabric. It can carry a slightly negative connotation when describing aging skin.

  • She noticed a few wrinkles around her eyes
  • The clothes have wrinkles from being left in the dryer too long
rumple

Often used to describe clothes or bed covers that have been untidily disarranged. It typically has a casual or gentle connotation.

  • He rumpled his shirt while packing
  • The child rumpled the bedcovers
crease

Refers to a line or fold, especially one made accidentally on fabric or paper.

  • There was a crease in his shirt
  • She tried to smooth out the creases in the map

Examples of usage

  • The wind ruffled the surface of the water.
  • Her dress was ruffled at the hem.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'ruffled' comes from the Old French word 'rouffler,' which means to ruffle or disturb.
  • In the 14th century, the word was used to describe fabrics that were made uneven or wrinkled.
  • Originally, it referred specifically to the action of making something neat into a sloppier state.

Fashion

  • Ruffled fabrics are popular in fashion, adding a playful or romantic touch to clothing designs.
  • Designers often use ruffles in dresses and blouses to create texture and visual interest.
  • Ruffles have been a fashion statement since the Victorian era, symbolizing elegance and femininity.

Psychology

  • Feeling ruffled might relate to being stressed or agitated, often making one feel out of place.
  • Some studies suggest that ruffled emotions can lead to creative solutions by shaking up routine thoughts.
  • The expression 'ruffled feathers' indicates a state of disturbance that can trigger social conflict or tension.

Nature

  • In nature, ruffled feathers in birds can indicate that they are startled or threatened.
  • Some animals fluff up their fur or feathers to appear larger and intimidate potential threats.
  • Wind can ruffle leaves on trees, creating a rustling sound that is soothing to many people.

Literature

  • Ruffled characters often appear in literature, showcasing those who are unsettled or facing conflict.
  • The use of 'ruffled' in poetry can evoke feelings of chaos or emotional disturbance.
  • In classic novels, a ruffled appearance often hints at a character’s inner turmoil or changing circumstances.

Translations

Translations of the word "ruffled" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ondulado

🇮🇳 झुका हुआ

🇩🇪 gerüscht

🇮🇩 kerut

🇺🇦 зморщений

🇵🇱 pofałdowany

🇯🇵 しわくちゃ

🇫🇷 plissé

🇪🇸 arrugado

🇹🇷 buruşuk

🇰🇷 주름진

🇸🇦 مجعد

🇨🇿 zmačkaný

🇸🇰 zmačkaný

🇨🇳 皱褶的

🇸🇮 naguban

🇮🇸 krumpaður

🇰🇿 мыжылған

🇬🇪 ნაოჭიანი

🇦🇿 buruşmuş

🇲🇽 arrugado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,369, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.