ruffle
ruffle Lexical Profile
ruffle Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To disorder, disarrange, or disturb the smoothness of something, especially hair, feathers, or water.
"He affectionately ruffled his younger brother's hair before heading out the door."
To upset, annoy, or disturb the calmness and composure of someone.
"Even tough questions from the panel failed to ruffle the experienced speaker."
To erect or puff out feathers (of a bird), typically as a display of aggression, courtship, or protection against the cold.
"The robin ruffled its feathers on the snowy branch to trap warm air against its body."
To gather or pleat fabric into decorative frills or folds.
"The seamstress carefully ruffled the silk ribbon to trim the edge of the evening gown."
• noun
An ornamental strip of fabric, lace, or ribbon tightly gathered or pleated on one edge and attached to a garment, curtain, or bedding as a decorative frill.
"The antique Victorian blouse featured delicate lace ruffles along the collar and cuffs."
A slight disturbance, agitation, or rippling movement on a smooth surface, such as water or feathers, or in a person's composure.
"A sudden ruffle of wind moved across the calm lake as the evening breeze picked up."
A low, continuous, vibrating beat on a drum, less loud than a full roll, historically played as a ceremonial salute.
"The ceremonial band played ruffles and flourishes as the visiting dignitary stepped onto the podium."
• Rhymes for ruffle
Word Origin & Etymology
Dating back to the 14th century, the word originates from the Middle English verb 'ruffelen' (to disorder or tangle), likely derived from a Low German or Scandinavian root related to 'rough' combined with the frequentative suffix '-le'.