Rumpling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rumpling

[ˈrʌmpəlɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

wrinkling fabric

To rumple means to make something wrinkled or creased, typically referring to fabric, paper, or a surface. It can also imply a disheveled or untidy appearance.

Synonyms

crease, crumple, wrinkle.

Examples of usage

  • She rumpled her dress before putting it on.
  • The child rumpled the paper after coloring on it.
  • He rumpled the sheets as he tossed and turned in bed.
Context #2 | Verb

disheveled appearance

To rumple can also refer to causing a person's hair or appearance to look messy or untidy. This usage often conveys a sense of casualness or relaxation.

Synonyms

disarrange, mess up, tousle.

Examples of usage

  • His hair was rumpled after a long night.
  • She didn't care about looking rumpled after her workout.
  • The wind rumpled her hair as she walked along the beach.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • In fashion, rumpled clothing can be seen as either stylishly casual or improperly worn, depending on the context.
  • Certain fabrics, like linen, are known for their rumpling, giving a relaxed look that many people enjoy.
  • Designers sometimes intentionally create rumpled looks to convey a sense of artistic chaos or bohemian style.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people often associate rumpled clothing with a lack of attention to detail, which can affect first impressions.
  • A rumpled appearance can indicate stress or a busy lifestyle, reflecting how we feel inside.
  • Psychoanalysts suggest that messy, rumpled surroundings can impact our mood and productivity.

Literature

  • In literature, characters described as rumpled often signify a carefree or disheveled nature, adding to their charm.
  • Classic stories might use rumpling to symbolize a character's transition from order to disorder.
  • Writers use the imagery of rumpled objects to evoke feelings of nostalgia or lost time.

Art

  • Artists sometimes use rumpled or textured materials in their work to create visual interest and depth.
  • The technique of creating rumpled paper or canvas has been used to represent chaos or emotional turmoil in expressions of modern art.
  • In sculpture, incorporating rumpled forms can make pieces appear dynamic and alive.

Origin of 'rumpling'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'rumple' comes from an old word meaning to crumple or fold over.
  • It has been used in the English language since at least the early 16th century, showing how long people have been talking about wrinkling.
  • The prefix 'rum-' is associated with creating mess or disarray in various words.

The word 'rumple' has its origins from the Middle English term 'rumplen,' which is a frequentative form of 'rumpe,' meaning to make or become crumpled. The etymology suggests a playful sense of altering or messing up something, especially textiles. This word first appeared in usage around the 15th century, evolving over time to encompass various contexts where disarray or crumpling occurs. The verb 'rumple' has gained traction not only in literary descriptions but also in everyday language, becoming synonymous with the act of creating wrinkles or disorder in objects and appearances alike.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,480, 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.