muss
5 synonyms for muss, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To make something untidy or messy, especially hair or clothing.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To make something untidy or messy, especially hair or clothing.
“The old man affectionately mussed his grandson's hair.”
How to use muss
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
muss up someone's hair
without so much as a muss
Etymology
Related to the word mess, describing disorder or untidiness.
Full origin of muss →Frequently asked questions
What does “muss” mean?
The word “muss” means to make something untidy or messy, especially hair or clothing. In plain terms, to rumple or make untidy — usually said of hair.
How do you pronounce “muss”?
“Muss” is pronounced muhs (/mʌs/ in IPA).
How do you use “muss” in a sentence?
Here is “muss” used in a sentence: “The wind mussed his hair the moment he stepped outside.”
What part of speech is “muss”?
Depending on how it is used, “muss” can be a verb and a noun.
How many meanings does “muss” have?
“Muss” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make something untidy or messy, especially hair or clothing.
