VocabDictionary

mussing

/ˈmʌs.ɪŋ/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

Making something (especially hair or clothing) untidy, disheveled, or rumpled.

Example Sentences:
  • She ran her fingers through his hair, affectionately mussing it up.
  • A sudden gust of wind swept through the garden, mussing everyone's carefully styled hair.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “mussing”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originating in 19th-century American English, 'mussing' is the present participle of 'muss,' which arose as a colloquial variant or alteration of the word 'mess.' It specifically developed to describe the act of disarranging or ruffling hair, clothes, or fabric.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of making a MESS when you are MUSSING your hair.

Frequently Asked Questions About “mussing

1. What is the meaning of “mussing” in English?

In English, mussing (verb) is defined as: “Making something (especially hair or clothing) untidy, disheveled, or rumpled.”.

2. How do you use “mussing” in a sentence?

She ran her fingers through his hair, affectionately mussing it up.

3. What are English synonyms of “mussing”?

Common synonyms include:tousling,disheveling,rumpling,ruffling,messing

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “mussing”?

Originating in 19th-century American English, 'mussing' is the present participle of 'muss,' which arose as a colloquial variant or alteration of the word 'mess.' It specifically developed to describe the act of disarranging or ruffling hair, clothes, or fabric.