ruffle etymology

Origin and Etymology of "Ruffle"

The word "ruffle" originated in the late 15th century from the Middle English term "ruffelen," meaning "to wrinkle or pucker." It is ultimately derived from the Old French word "roffier," which referred to a type of pleated fabric or garment.

Meaning of "Ruffle"

1. (Noun)

  • A gathered or pleated strip of fabric added to the edges of garments, curtains, or other textiles as an ornament.
  • A disturbance or disruption, especially in water.

2. (Verb)

  • To disturb or disrupt, especially the surface of water.
  • To annoy or irritate someone.
  • To discompose or create a flutter in something.

Examples of Use

As a Noun:

  • The dress had a delicate lace ruffle around the neckline.
  • The waves created a gentle ruffle on the lake's surface.

As a Verb:

  • The wind ruffled the leaves of the trees.
  • Her words ruffled his feathers.
  • The unexpected news ruffled the calm of the meeting.

ruffle relate terms

  • ruff

    Etymology The word ruff comes from the Middle English word ruffe which is derived f

  • ruffle

    Origin and Etymology of Ruffle The word ruffle originated in the late 15th century fr

  • unruffled

    Etymology of Unruffled The word unruffled comes from the Old English word unrufled

  • ruffle

    Origin and Etymology of Ruffle The word ruffle originated in the late 15th century fr

  • swagger

    Etymology and Meaning The word swagger has its origins in the Middle English word swag

  • prance

    Etymology The word prance derives from the Middle English word praunsen which ultima

  • strut

    Etymology Middle English strutte from Old English strutian to rove about ramble G

  • crepe

    Etymology The word crepe originates from the French word crêpe which means fabric

  • fluff

    Etymology Early 19th century from dialect use of fluff for a light substance such as

  • fight

    Etymology From Middle English fighten fighte from Old English feohtan to fight f

  • gravel

    Etymology Middle English gravele gravil 13th century Old French gravele gravel 1

  • nettle

    Etymology Middle English netele nettle Old English netele Proto Germanic netilaz P

  • rile

    Etymology and Origin The name Rile has multiple etymological origins English From