Rumple Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rumple

[หˆrสŒmpษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in clothing

To crumple or fold (cloth, paper, etc.) untidily. To make (something) untidy or wrinkled.

Synonyms

crease, crumple, wrinkle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rumple

Often used for fabric or clothing when it is not smooth or tidy. It implies a less severe disturbance.

  • He rumpled his shirt when he threw it on the bed.
  • The child rumpled the bed sheets while jumping on the bed.
crumple

Crumple is used when something is crushed or pressed into a small, bendy shape, often implying damage or carelessness.

  • She crumpled the note and threw it away.
  • The car's front end crumpled in the accident.
wrinkle

Commonly used for small, usually unintentional folds or lines, especially in skin or fabric.

  • She noticed a few wrinkles in her dress after sitting down.
  • His face was full of wrinkles after years in the sun.
crease

Typically used for sharp lines or folds in fabric or paper, often intentionally made or as a result of being folded.

  • He left a crease in his pants by folding them wrong.
  • Please be careful not to crease the important document.

Examples of usage

  • The child rumpled his clothes while playing outside.
  • She rumpled the paper in frustration.
Context #2 | Noun

in hair

A tangled mass or cluster, especially of hair.

Synonyms

cluster, knob, tangle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rumple

Repeated entry. Refer to the first 'rumple' entry above.

  • He rumpled his shirt while packing his suitcase
  • Her hair was rumpled after waking up
tangle

This word describes a twisted mass of something that is difficult to separate. It can be used both literally and metaphorically.

  • The fishing lines got tangled together
  • She tried to detangle her thoughts after the confusing lecture
cluster

This is used to describe a group of similar things or people that are close together. Often used in scientific, organizational, or descriptive contexts.

  • A cluster of stars appeared in the night sky
  • The bees formed a cluster around the queen
knob

This word is often used to describe a rounded handle or control, which can be part of a door, piece of furniture, or electronic device.

  • Turn the knob to open the door
  • Adjust the volume by rotating the knob

Examples of usage

  • She woke up with a rumple of hair on top of her head.
  • His bedhead was a rumple of curls.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, characters often rumple their clothes to show nervousness or agitation.
  • Well-known children's stories often use the word to describe the way creatures might mess up their homes or beds.
  • The imagery of rumpled blankets often evokes feelings of comfort and home in narratives.

Psychology

  • Rumpled clothing can affect how people perceive you, often being associated with a relaxed or informal demeanor.
  • The act of rumpling something can serve as a physical expression of emotional turmoil or stress.
  • Studies show that environments filled with rumpled items can increase feelings of chaos or disorder in individuals.

Art

  • Many artists depict rumpled fabric in paintings to create a sense of movement and life.
  • The textures of rumpled surfaces can create interesting contrasts and depth in sculptural work.
  • In fashion design, rumpled clothing can be a style choice, portraying a laid-back aesthetic.

Cultural References

  • Rumpled bedding is often featured in films as a sign of a cozy, lived-in space.
  • The term is used in the idiom 'to rumple someoneโ€™s feathers,' indicating a disturbance in someone's calm or composure.
  • Fashion trends have included intentionally rumpled looks to convey a carefree spirit.

Origin of 'rumple'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'rumple' comes from the Middle English word 'rumplen', which means 'to crumple up.'
  • It shares roots with the Old Norse word 'rumpla,' reflecting its long history in English.
  • Early usage can be traced back to the 14th century, emphasizing its long-standing presence in the language.

The word 'rumple' originated from the Middle English word 'rumpelen', which meant to create folds or wrinkles. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over time, 'rumple' has evolved to describe the action of making something untidy or wrinkled, especially in relation to clothing or hair.


See also: rumpled.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,403, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.