ruffle

Syllabification: (ruf·fle)

Pronunciation: /ˈrəfəl/

Definition of ruffle

[with object]

1disorder or disarrange (someone’s hair), typically by running one’s hands through it:he ruffled her hair affectionately
(of a bird) erect (its feathers) in anger or display:on his departure to the high wires, the starling ruffled his feathers and flirted his wings
disturb the smoothness or tranquility of:the evening breeze ruffled the surface of the pond in the yard
disconcert or upset the composure of (someone):Brian had been ruffled by her questions

2 (usually as adjective ruffled) ornament with or gather into a frill:a blouse with a high ruffled neck

1an ornamental gathered or goffered frill of lace or other cloth on a garment, especially around the wrist or neck.

Phrases

ruffle someone's feathers: cause someone to become annoyed or upset:tampering with the traditional approach would ruffle a few feathers
smooth someone's ruffled feathers: make someone less angry or irritated by using soothing words.

Middle English (as a verb): of unknown origin. Current noun senses date from the late 17th century

Definition of ruffle in the British & World English dictionary