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kerfuffle

noun

/kəˈfʌfl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of kerfuffle

A commotion or fuss, usually over something minor or insignificant.
"The controversial art exhibit caused a kerfuffle in the art world."

Detailed meaning of kerfuffle

"Kerfuffle" refers to It is a mild or temporary disruption or disorder, usually characterized by a lot of noise, agitation, and confusion. Kerfuffle can refer to a variety of situations, such as a disagreement or argument, a misunderstanding, or a small disturbance. It can also refer to a situation where people are excessively or unnecessarily excited or agitated. The word comes from the Scottish word "curfuffle" which means to disorder or disarrange. For example, a kerfuffle may occur in a classroom when students are not paying attention to the teacher, or in a public place where people are arguing over a trivial matter. It can also be used to describe a situation where people are overreacting to a minor event or issue. In short, Kerfuffle is a commotion or fuss, usually over something minor or insignificant, characterized by a lot of noise, agitation, and confusion.

Example sentences containing kerfuffle

1. The party was in full swing until a kerfuffle erupted over the choice of music.
2. The kerfuffle between the two colleagues disrupted the harmony in the office.
3. The minor disagreement quickly escalated into a major kerfuffle, causing chaos in the meeting.
4. A kerfuffle broke out among the students when the teacher announced a surprise pop quiz.
5. The political kerfuffle captured media attention and sparked a heated debate.
6. The celebrity's controversial statement caused a kerfuffle on social media.

History and etymology of kerfuffle

The noun 'kerfuffle' has a charmingly whimsical etymology, though its exact origin is not entirely clear. It is believed to be of Scottish or British origin and emerged in the late 19th or early 20th century. The term may have evolved from the Scottish Gaelic word 'carbuncle,' meaning 'a painful boil' or 'a red, inflamed swelling.' Alternatively, it might be related to the Scottish word 'curfuffle,' which means 'to disarrange' or 'to ruffle,' as one might do to someone's hair. Regardless of its precise source, 'kerfuffle' has come to signify a minor commotion or fuss over something relatively insignificant, often characterized by confusion or disarray. Its playful sound and unique structure contribute to its effectiveness in describing moments of mild chaos or agitation.

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Further usage examples of kerfuffle

1. The customer's complaint led to a kerfuffle between the staff and the management.
2. The kerfuffle at the airport delayed our flight by several hours.
3. The neighbors had a kerfuffle over a parking space, resulting in a call to the police.
4. The kerfuffle at the concert started when fans began arguing over their positions in the crowd.
5. The restaurant experienced a kerfuffle when a customer found a hair in their food.
6. The students' prank caused a kerfuffle among the faculty members.
7. The kerfuffle between the rival sports teams resulted in a brawl on the field.
8. The kerfuffle between the siblings led to a broken vase and tears.
9. The kerfuffle over the limited edition product caused a rush at the store.
10. The politician's scandal created a kerfuffle that threatened their reputation.
11. The kerfuffle in the courtroom disrupted the proceedings and required intervention from the judge.
12. The social media influencer's controversial post caused a kerfuffle among their followers.
13. The misunderstanding between the friends turned into a silly kerfuffle that was quickly resolved.
14. The sudden cancellation of the event caused a kerfuffle among the attendees who had made travel arrangements.