Tossed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tossed

[tษ”st ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Tossed is the past tense of the verb 'toss,' which means to throw something lightly or casually. It can also refer to the act of mixing ingredients lightly in cooking. The action implies a quick or careless movement.

Synonyms

cast, flung, threw.

Examples of usage

  • She tossed the ball to her friend.
  • He tossed the salad before serving it.
  • The player tossed the coin to decide who would go first.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In 1996, the popular music group The Offspring released a song titled 'Tossed', which captures the carefree attitude associated with tossing.
  • The phrase 'tossed salad' has entered into pop culture as a metaphor for an unpredictable situation, often used in reality shows.
  • โ€˜Toss the coinโ€™ is a classic phrase used in decision-making, showing how the word has made its way into everyday language.

Psychology

  • Tossing a coin can be linked to psychological decision-making processes, often reflecting a person's willingness to leave choices up to chance.
  • Research shows that physical actions like tossing can have psychological benefits, such as reducing stress by engaging in light, playful actions.
  • The act of tossing can also reflect spontaneity and playfulness, traits associated with exploring new possibilities.

Literature

  • In many poems and stories, tossing something often symbolizes letting go or relinquishing control.
  • Authors frequently use the act of tossing to signify change, such as tossing aside old ways or beliefs to embrace new adventures.
  • Tossed imagery is common in childrenโ€™s literature, where characters might toss leaves or toys, evoking a sense of freedom and joy.

Science

  • In physics, tossing an object translates to concepts of gravity and trajectory, as scientists study how objects move through the air.
  • Tossing includes principles of force and motion, illustrating basic laws of physics even in simple actions.
  • The way an object is tossed can affect its trajectory, making it a subject of study in sports science, especially concerning athletes' techniques.

Origin of 'tossed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'toss' comes from the Middle English 'tosse', which means to shake or toss about.
  • It's believed to have roots in the Old Norse word 'tossa', conveying similar meanings of throwing or shaking.
  • Historically, 'toss' was also used to describe the motion of tossing dice in games.

The word 'tossed' comes from the Middle English 'tosse,' derived from the Old Norse 'tวซss,' which means to toss or to throw. Its roots suggest a casual or light action, which is reflected in both verbal and physical forms of the word's usage. The evolution of 'toss' can be traced back to the need for a term that encapsulated light, dexterous throwing motions, which could apply in various contexts, from sports to cooking. The term has remained relatively stable in meaning through centuries of usage, maintaining its essence of casual, often playful, throwing. In modern English, it is commonly used in informal contexts and has expanded to various idiomatic expressions.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,930 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.