26984 words

ruffle

6 definitions • 6 examples
1
to touch or move something smooth so that it is not even:

Examples:

She affectionately ruffled his hair with her hand as she passed.
The birds ruffled their feathers (up) in alarm.
2
to annoy or upset someone, or to make someone very nervous:

Examples:

He's easily ruffled by criticism.
3
a series of small folds made in a piece of cloth or sewn onto it, as decoration
4
to make someone upset or nervous or reduce someone’s confidence:

Examples:

[ T ] It ruffled her composure, and she did not know how to respond.
5
to make something that is smooth uneven:

Examples:

A sudden, strong breeze ruffled the women’s skirts in the stands.
6
a series of small folds made in a piece of cloth or sewn into it as decoration:

Examples:

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