muss

[ muhs ]

noun

1. a state of disorder or untidiness.

verb (used with object)

1. to put into disorder; make messy; rumple (often followed by up ).

   Synonyms: bedraggle, tangle, disturb, mess

muss

/ mʌs /

verb

1. troften foll byup to make untidy; rumple

noun

1. a state of disorder; muddle

Word History and Origins

Origin of muss¹

1820–30; perhaps blend of mess and fuss

Word History and Origins

Origin of muss¹

C19: probably a blend of mess + fuss

Example Sentences

Linda McMahon, the former pro wrestling executive who served as director of the Small Business Administration under Trump, told of a meeting where one of his grandchildren climbed onto his lap and mussed his hair.

From Los Angeles Times

The young man’s muscles are rippling, his hair artfully mussed, his gaze troubled but beguiling.

From New York Times

Like the hypnotically minimalist drama that contains Friedel’s restrained performance, the Höss we meet is immaculately presented, his hair never mussed, his manner often serene.

From Los Angeles Times

He’s so in love with the shoes that he’s reluctant to do anything in them, sitting out a pickup game for fear they’ll get mussed.

From New York Times

The uncharacteristically mussed hair and the pained, anxiety-ridden grimace were long gone.

From Los Angeles Times