"ruffle the feathers of [someone]"

The phrase "ruffle the feathers of [someone]" is an idiomatic expression meaning:

> To annoy, upset, or irritate someone, especially by doing or saying something they don't like or agree with.



Example Sentences:

His blunt comments ruffled the feathers of many people at the meeting.

She tries not to ruffle any feathers when offering constructive criticism.

The new manager’s sudden changes ruffled the feathers of longtime employees.


Origin:

This idiom comes from the image of a bird getting agitated—its feathers stand up or get ruffled—when it's disturbed or angry.