ruff

What is a "ruff"?

A ruff is a species of freshwater bird found in Eurasia, known for its distinctive appearance and elaborate courtship displays. It belongs to the family of sandpipers and has a medium-sized body with long legs. The male ruff displays an impressive array of plumage during the breeding season, including a colorful ruff around its neck, which it uses to attract mates and establish dominance. The female ruff, on the other hand, has a more subdued appearance with brownish plumage. These birds inhabit wetland areas, such as marshes and meadows, where they feed on insects, worms, and small aquatic organisms. The ruff is highly migratory, traveling long distances between its breeding and wintering grounds, making it a fascinating and charismatic species in the avian world.

What is a "ruff"?

A ruff is a fashion accessory that was popular in Western Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries. It is a pleated or gathered collar made of lace, linen, or muslin, and it encircles the neck and shoulders, standing up behind the head. Ruffs were often worn by both men and women as a sign of wealth and social status, and they could be made in various sizes and styles. Ruffs were typically worn with formal attire, such as doublets, gowns, or bodices, and they were sometimes embellished with jewels or embroidery to display the wearer's wealth and prestige further. The popularity of ruffs eventually declined in the 17th century as more simple, streamlined styles came into fashion.