ruff

Definition of ruffnext

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ruff Rich with historical details like puff sleeves, ruffs and lace collars, his creations were immortalized in period paintings such as a towering portrait of New York social arbiter Mrs. Astor by Carolus-Duran, which was prominently displayed in the reception room of her Fifth Avenue mansion. Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 7 May 2025 Up close, the marigold has a glowing ruff that is almost decadent. Sam Knight, New Yorker, 12 Apr. 2025 Originally attributed to Pieter Pourbus, a Flemish Renaissance artist who worked in Bruges during the 16th century, the painting depicts an austere man and his young daughter in matching ruffs. Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 26 Mar. 2025 South wins and leads a trump, but Cy grabs his ace, gives West a club ruff and ruffs the diamond return for down one. Frank Stewart, The Mercury News, 18 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for ruff
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ruff
Noun
  • For this super laidback, windchill-ready look, Hadid wore a beanie hat over her plaits, ski goggle-like black sunglasses, and black leather gloves.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 3 Jan. 2026
  • Low-tension styles are no longer just a few neat plaits.
    Donnetta Monk, Essence, 21 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • The hockey, figure skating and speedskating venues in Milan are scattered on the fringes of the city, while central tourist attractions such as the Duomo and the Navigli have bearable levels of foot traffic.
    Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 16 Feb. 2026
  • The Alentejo Coast, Portugal Running south from Comporta to the Algarve’s quieter fringes, the Alentejo is coastal Portugal with the volume turned down to almost zero.
    Rob Crossan, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • As part of his new collection for the brand, Arnold unveiled a new shape—a slightly sloping, almost smile-like pleat that’s simultaneously nonchalant and fully sophisticated.
    Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 13 Feb. 2026
  • Overly Elaborate Pleats Heavy, elaborate pleats can make curtains look stiff and overly formal, which is why designers are favoring simpler, more elegant pleat styles.
    Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • The hiker aesthetic is rounded out with hardware trims on the Ghillie laces and a warm faux-fur lining.
    Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 11 Feb. 2026
  • Try to get a look below the surface—if anything is broken, damaged, rotten, or desiccated, a simple trim could help.
    Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 11 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Her Iamraw collection, intended to channel fragility, features subtle design details like double sleeves and raw edging in fabrics like Tencel, viscose and cotton.
    Alex Wynne, Footwear News, 26 Jan. 2026
  • The Queen Consort chose a Robinson Valentine white silk chiffon gown with scalloped edging and a matching white overcoat.
    Nicole Briese, PEOPLE, 18 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ruff.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ruff. Accessed 17 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on ruff

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!