To disturb the smoothness or tranquility of something; to make or become wrinkled, irregular, or agitated.
From Middle English ruffelen, possibly from Old Norse hrufla meaning 'to scratch.' The sense evolved from physical scratching to general disturbance, with the clothing decoration sense appearing later.
Ruffles on clothing were originally functional - they helped shed water and protected the main garment from wear. The decorative aspect came later, but the word's connection to disturbance remains in phrases like 'ruffle someone's feathers.'
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