RUFFLES Synonyms: 158 Similar and Opposite Words

ruffles 1 of 2

noun

plural of ruffle

as in flounces

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 thorns

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

ruffles

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of ruffle

as in annoys

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 ruffles

Noun

Chicken liver mousse is piped in ruffles on savory sablé cookies; a thimble-sized complimentary cocktail begins the meal for those who drink alcohol. —

Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 16 Mar. 2026 For the occasion, my mother had put on her Balenciaga, a black dress with two wide shoulder straps, a firm bodice, a full skirt that ended a few inches above the ankles, and the illusion of an underskirt supplied by a band of taffeta ruffles, also black, that peeked out from beneath the hem. —

Han Ong, New Yorker, 15 Mar. 2026 One Battle After Another star Shayna McHale looked the picture of Old Hollywood glamour with her glossy curls, which mirrored her gown’s architectural ruffles. —

Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 15 Mar. 2026 Expect fun details, like lace, ruffles, tiered skirts, drop waists, voluminous sleeves, cutouts, and much more. —

Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 12 Mar. 2026 Bubble hems are still trending and well-suited for the younger crowd, as are ruffles, bold florals, polka dots and anything else that feels fresh for the new season. —

Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 12 Mar. 2026 The darling florals are instantly recognizable, and the ruffles and pastel colors feel like a hug from the past. —

Heather Bien, Southern Living, 9 Mar. 2026 Whether looking for florals, lace, beading, or ruffles, there are lots of stunning plus-size dresses for spring weddings. —

Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 8 Mar. 2026 Employing the teeniest of ruffles, this West Elm sheet set features just a hint of twee detailing, almost like a playful coquette. —

Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 28 Feb. 2026

Verb

And Elon Musk’s AI power plant ruffles a Mississippi city. —

David Hickey, NBC news, 26 Feb. 2026 Luckily for the show, nothing ruffles the other women’s feathers more, so good television still ensues. —

Tom Smyth, Vulture, 31 Dec. 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ruffles

Noun

Two centuries later, frills and flounces are back in style on the heels of the cottagecore bedding scene, allowing your bedscape to embrace its softer side.

— 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