RUFFLE FEATHERS Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "ruffle feathers" is an idiomatic expression that refers to causing annoyance, irritation, or offense to someone. It is commonly used metaphorically and derived from a literal action of a bird when its feathers are disturbed, suggesting a similar effect on individuals' emotions or sensitivities.
When someone "ruffles feathers," they typically engage in behavior that disrupts social harmony or challenges the norms and opinions of others. This may involve expressing controversial or unpopular viewpoints, behaving in an unconventional or disruptive manner, or simply being intentionally provocative. The purpose of "ruffling feathers" is often to evoke a reaction, initiate debate, or challenge established ideas or beliefs.
The phrase can be used in various contexts, from casual conversations to formal discourse, and is often employed to describe individuals who deliberately seek to disrupt the status quo or provoke a response from others. It implies a certain amount of discomfort, unease, or agitation caused by the actions or statements of the person involved.
Overall, "ruffling feathers" signifies an intentional act of unsettling others, stirring up controversy, or challenging conventional wisdom, leading to emotional reactions ranging from mild annoyance to outright anger.
Common Misspellings for RUFFLE FEATHERS
- euffle feathers
- duffle feathers
- fuffle feathers
- tuffle feathers
- 5uffle feathers
- 4uffle feathers
- ryffle feathers
- rhffle feathers
- rjffle feathers
- riffle feathers
- r8ffle feathers
- r7ffle feathers
- rudfle feathers
- rucfle feathers
- ruvfle feathers
- rugfle feathers
- rutfle feathers
- rurfle feathers
- rufdle feathers
Etymology of RUFFLE FEATHERS
The etymology of the phrase "ruffle feathers" can be traced back to the Middle Ages when it was common for people to have pet birds, particularly domesticated chickens. The word "ruffle" is derived from the Old French term "roffle", which means to disorder or disturb the smoothness of something, like the feathers of a bird. In this context, "feathers" simply refers to the plumage of the bird. Over time, the phrase evolved to figuratively describe the act of causing irritation or annoyance to someone, akin to disturbing the calmness of a bird's feathers by ruffling them. Thus, "ruffle feathers" came to represent provoking or agitating someone.
Idioms with the word RUFFLE FEATHERS
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ruffle feathers
To "ruffle feathers" means to upset or annoy someone by saying or doing something that goes against their expectations or beliefs. It can also refer to causing disruption or friction in a situation.
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