ruffle feathers
phrase
informal
: to upset or offend someone
Her research has been ruffling feathers [=upsetting people] for years.
His critical remarks are sure to ruffle some feathers.
Cite this Entry
“Ruffle feathers.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ruffle%20feathers. Accessed 11 Dec. 2025.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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