unruffle

[ uhn-ruhf-uhl ]

verb (used with object)

, un·ruf·fled, un·ruf·fling.

1. to calm (someone).
2. to smooth out (something).

verb (used without object)

, un·ruf·fled, un·ruf·fling.

1. to become calm or smoothed out.

Word History and Origins

Origin of unruffle¹

First recorded in 1690–1700; un- ² + ruffle ¹

Example Sentences

It had to go off somewhere to sit in a huff, unruffle its feathers, and regain its ruthless composure.

From Literature

“I’m just thankful that Tra and I got the chance to unruffle its former beauty.”

From Southern Living

Why, then I see, a witch hath her good spells, As well as bad, and can by a backward charm Unruffle the foul storm she has just been raising.

From Project Gutenberg

Tom was packed in ten minutes, all except what his aunt and Mary would finish up for him; then we waited ten more for her to get cooled down and sweet and gentle again; for Tom said it took her ten minutes to unruffle in times when half of her feathers was up, but twenty when they was all up, and this was one of the times when they was all up.

From Project Gutenberg

Where'er he guides His finny coursers and in triumph rides, The waves unruffle and the sea subsides.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• sedate