Tousled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
tousled
[หtaสzษld ]
Definitions
messy hair
Tousled means disheveled or untidy, especially when referring to hair that is messy or rumpled.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tousled |
Suitable for describing hair that looks slightly messy in an attractive way, often after sleeping or being out in the wind.
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| disheveled |
Best for describing someoneโs appearance, clothes, or things in a state of disarray or untidiness. It often carries a negative connotation.
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| untidy |
General term used to describe anything that is not neat or organized. This can refer to rooms, clothes, or appearance.
|
| rumpled |
Often used to describe clothes or fabrics that are wrinkled or not smooth. It can also refer to someone's overall appearance.
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Examples of usage
- My tousled hair gave me a carefree look.
- She had a tousled appearance, as if she had just woken up.
hair styling
To tousle means to make something, typically hair, untidy or disheveled.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tousled |
Usually describes hair that looks untidy in a slightly attractive way.
|
| dishevel |
Often refers to making something, especially hair or clothes, untidy, implying a general state of disorder.
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| mess up |
Casual and commonly used to describe making something dirty, untidy, or incorrect. This can imply making a mistake and often has a negative connotation.
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| rumple |
Usually refers to making clothes or sheets look messy with wrinkles.
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Examples of usage
- She tousled her hair for a more casual look.
- He tousled his son's hair playfully.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Characters in movies often sport tousled hair to portray a carefree or adventurous spirit, such as young heroes in animated films.
- In fashion, tousled hairstyles are trendy, suggesting a casual, effortless vibe that many strive for.
- The tousled look has been popularized by various celebrities, often as part of the 'beachy waves' style.
Psychology
- Studies show that people often associate tousled hair with a laid-back personality, leading to perceptions of approachability.
- Messy hair can signal a relaxed attitude, which might help people feel more comfortable in social settings.
- In stress environments, people may unconsciously tousle their hair as a coping mechanism or sign of anxiety.
Literature
- In classic literature, characters with tousled hair often represent wildness or nonconformity, challenging societal norms.
- Poets sometimes describe tousled hair to evoke imagery of freedom and spontaneity, linking it to youthful energy.
- Authors like J.D. Salinger often use hair descriptions, such as tousling, to reflect a character's internal state or transformation.
Fashion
- The tousled hairstyle is often created using specific styling products like sea salt sprays to add texture and volume.
- Fashion shows frequently feature models with intentionally tousled hair to complement a casual yet stylish look.
- Hairstylists often favor tousled looks for weddings and events because they deliver a romantic, whimsical feel.
Origin of 'tousled'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'tousled' comes from the early 17th century, deriving from the verb 'tousle', meaning to dishevel.
- Related words in Old English include 'tussel', which also implies a state of disarray or messiness.
- Interestingly, 'tousle' was initially used to describe the disheveled appearance of both hair and clothes.
The word 'tousled' originated from the Middle English word 'touselen', which means to handle roughly or pull about. It evolved over time to refer to hair that is disheveled or untidy. The concept of tousled hair became popular in the fashion world as a desirable and stylish look, often associated with a carefree and casual attitude.
See also: tousle.