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DictionarykerfuffleFuss
noun

kerfuffle

ker-FUF-ul/kərˈfʌfl/

A fuss over a relatively minor matter.

The customers create a kerfuffle over the tiny spill while the server offers a napkin.

Two café customers make an exaggerated, visibly vocal fuss over a tiny coffee spill, while a server calmly offers a napkin.
Etymology
kerfuffleScotsdisorder; agitation

Scots curfuffle described a disordered or ruffled state, then agitation or disturbance—the connection to today’s noisy fuss. Its deeper origin is uncertain.

In context

Controversies in Church History25:06
um Pope Vigilius um he he found himself in the midst of a a Caesaro-papist kerfuffle.
The Papacy and the Orthodox: an Interview With Erick Ybarra

More examples

  • The new seating chart creates a kerfuffle in the office.
  • We laugh about yesterday's kerfuffle over the last cookie.
  • Small kerfuffles over parking rarely bother our neighbors.

Forms

kerfuffle · kerfuffles

Similar words

fuss
Can emphasize unnecessary worry or attention rather than a disturbance.
commotion
Emphasizes noisy activity or confusion, not necessarily a minor dispute.