1
2
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
as in to annoy
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
Catie Pusateri, Glamour, 26 June 2025
Printed cotton/silk maxi dresses, eyelet tops and dresses and blouses with ruffle necklines are among the non-denim pieces in the collection.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 13 June 2025
Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 20 June 2025
For a bit more volume up top, this ruffled one-piece uses texture and movement—like fluttery straps and a plunging neckline—to add shape and dimension to smaller busts.
—Malia Griggs, Glamour, 6 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for ruffle
Noun
Wrap dresses also play well with prints and patterns of all shapes and sizes, though a romantic floral number with wispy cap sleeves and ruffles is my personal favorite.
—Catie Pusateri, Glamour, 26 June 2025
Printed cotton/silk maxi dresses, eyelet tops and dresses and blouses with ruffle necklines are among the non-denim pieces in the collection.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 13 June 2025
Verb
Maersk’s role in transporting Israeli cargo has ruffled some feathers among pro-Palestine activists protesting the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
—Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 20 June 2025
For a bit more volume up top, this ruffled one-piece uses texture and movement—like fluttery straps and a plunging neckline—to add shape and dimension to smaller busts.
—Malia Griggs, Glamour, 6 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for ruffle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ruffle
Noun
-
The flounce hem is feminine and fun, adding just enough interest to take this from plain to chic.—
Ivy Odom,
Southern Living,
9 July 2025
-
The 9-year-old royal stepped out in a sleeveless ivory dress featuring a pleated bodice, flounce hem and black ruffle piping that traced the neckline and sleeves — a prim but playful silhouette that nodded to her growing style consistency.—
Maggie Clancy,
Footwear News,
3 Sep. 2019
Noun
-
James Tolkan plays Gerald Strickland, who worked at Hill Valley High School and, in both 1955 and 1985, was a thorn in the side of the McFlys.—
Jonathon Dornbush,
EW.com,
3 July 2025
-
Many people had thoughts about what was said, especially the constant thorn in Puff’s side, 50 Cent.—
Armon Sadler,
VIBE.com,
30 June 2025
Verb
-
Perhaps Trump just wanted to annoy his counterparts, especially those on the continent.—
Yeo Boon Ping,
CNBC,
14 July 2025
-
But Cotton, annoyed by Hank’s indirectness and emotion, browbeats his son.—
Daniel Dockery,
Vulture,
7 July 2025
Noun
-
Neither wood, plastic, nor metal edgings contain Kurapia.—
Nan Sterman,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
7 June 2025
-
Testers praised its edging, smearing, and all-day comfort.—
The Editors,
Outside Online,
26 June 2025
Noun
-
Some headaches are related to muscle tension and can be triggered by stress.9 Hot showers or baths promote relaxation.—
Mark Gurarie,
Verywell Health,
9 July 2025
-
These can seem like a real headache for a sole trader who does not have an HR department to take care of all this for them.—
Peter Boolkah,
Forbes.com,
8 July 2025
Verb
-
Things escalated further as fans began requesting photos and videos, reportedly irritating the R&B star.—
Preezy Brown,
VIBE.com,
14 July 2025
-
According to Valliere, people and pets should avoid coming in contact with several invasive plants in California, including: Certain grasses, which produce long awns and seeds that can irritate skin, get stuck in pets’ fur, and cause discomfort for both animals and humans.—
Sacbee.com,
Sacbee.com,
14 July 2025
Noun
-
Standards and enforcement mechanisms must be coordinated across borders to prevent forum shopping for more permissive venues.—
Cornelia C. Walther,
Forbes.com,
12 July 2025
-
The mock-up movie poster stood out amid a slew of other posts that focused on high-stakes matters such as the Trump Administration’s border patrol policies and the relief efforts for the devastating Texas floods.—
Olivia-Anne Cleary,
Time,
12 July 2025
Noun
-
The city’s multidisciplinary public task force, established in August 2023, was formed to investigate businesses and properties that have public safety concerns and city ordinance violations like nuisances and municipal offenses.—
PJ Green
July 10,
Kansas City Star,
10 July 2025
-
Relocating nuisance beavers isn’t new in western states.—
John Leos,
AZCentral.com,
8 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Ruffle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ruffle. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share