muss

American  

[muhs] / mʌs /

noun

1. a state of disorder or untidiness.

---

verb (used with object)

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

   Synonyms:

   bedraggle, tangle, disturb, mess

muss British  

/ mʌs /

verb

1. to make untidy; rumple

---

noun

1. a state of disorder; muddle

Etymology

Origin of muss

1820–30; perhaps blend of mess and fuss

Example Sentences

His shoulders sagged, and the line of his changshan was mussed, making him seem worn-out and disheveled.

From Literature

I could see her take in my mussed hair, my white mouth.

From Literature

“I’m not saying we wouldn’t get our hair mussed,” says Chairman of the Joint Chiefs and Air Force Col.

From Salon

The Meta boss appeared in a dark suit and gray tie, his signature chestnut curls slightly mussed, darting occasional nervous looks at the jury and the 20-year-old plaintiff, who sat in the courtroom gallery.

From Los Angeles Times

She pressed her hand on his head and mussed up his soft curls.

From Literature