rumpled

UK: ˈrʌmp(ə)ld | US: ˈrʌmp(ə)ld

Definition

  1. adj. wrinkled or creased, especially in fabric or clothing

  2. vt. (past tense of rumple) to make something wrinkled or untidy

Structure
rumple <to wrinkle>-ed <adjective/past participle suffix>
Etymology

The word rumpled derives from the Middle English romplen (to wrinkle), likely of Germanic origin, related to the Dutch rompelen (to crumple). The root rumple originally described the action of crushing or disordering fabric, later extending to general untidiness. The suffix -ed marks it as an adjective or past participle, preserving the core idea of disrupted smoothness.

Examples

  1. She wore a rumpled dress after the long flight.

  2. The papers lay rumpled on his desk.

  3. He rumpled his hair in frustration.

  4. The bed looked rumpled and unmade.

  5. Her smile faded as she noticed his rumpled collar.