RUFFLE Synonyms: 157 Similar and Opposite Words

ruffle 1 of 2

noun

as in flounce

a strip of fabric gathered or pleated on one edge and used as trimming likes lace curtains without ruffles and chintz curtains with ruffles

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in thorn

something that is a source of irritation a spouse's snoring is one ruffle that many couples must eventually come to terms with

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

ruffle

2 of 2

to disturb the peace of mind of (someone) especially by repeated disagreeable acts the stream of minor complaints finally ruffled him into snapping, "If you don't like the way I'm doing it, do it yourself!"

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 ruffle

Noun

There’s a fine line between romantic and excessive, so find ruffles that fall with intention. —

Alex Sales, Glamour, 19 Apr. 2026 There’s plenty of spring-friendly bedding worth shopping, too, like this pretty comforter with feminine ruffle details or a cooling blanket that thousands of hot sleepers swear by. —

Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Apr. 2026

Verb

That, and pinning her promotional campaign's $220 million price tag on the boss, may have ruffled a few important feathers at the White House. —

Ted Koppel, CBS News, 19 Apr. 2026 Jelly Roll found out in December on The Joe Rogan Experience that he would be inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and said nothing before the ceremony in March that would ruffle conservative Nashville feathers on the way. —

Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ruffle

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ruffle

Noun

The size of the flounce can also dictate the messaging.

— Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 28 Feb. 2026
When Hyacinth flounces off to check the hall, Eloise hot on her trail, Sophie begs for a moment of Violet’s time.

— Christina Grace Tucker, Vulture, 26 Feb. 2026