Muss - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Muss is a verb meaning to make something untidy or disheveled, often by handling it roughly. It can also refer to a state of disorder, as in mussed hair.
Definition:
To make untidy or disordered, especially hair or clothing.
Synonyms:
Dishevel, tousle, rumple, mess up
Part of Speech:
Verb, noun
Antonyms:
Tidy, straighten
Common Collocations:
Muss someone's hair, muss up clothes, muss a room
Derivatives:
Mussy (adj.), mussed (adj.)
Usage Tips:
Use "muss" to describe slight disarray, often in hair or fabric; avoid for severe messes.
Common Phrases:
Don’t muss it up, muss and fuss, all mussed up
Etymology:
Originated in early 19th century America; possibly from Dutch "mos" (scatter) or English dialect "muss" (confusion).
Examples:
- 1. The wind began to muss her neatly combed hair.
- 2. She didn’t want to muss her dress before the party.
- 3. His little brother loves to muss up his homework papers.
- 4. A playful hug can easily muss a child’s outfit.