Tousled: meaning, definitions and examples
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tousled
[ˈtaʊzəld ]
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.
|
| disheveled |
Best for describing someone’s appearance, clothes, or things in a state of disarray or untidiness. It often carries a negative connotation.
|
| 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.
|
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.
|
| 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.
|
| rumple |
Usually refers to making clothes or sheets look messy with wrinkles.
|
Examples of usage
- She tousled her hair for a more casual look.
- He tousled his son's hair playfully.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "tousled" in other languages:
🇵🇹 despenteado
🇮🇳 उलझा हुआ
🇩🇪 zerzaust
🇮🇩 kusut
🇺🇦 розпатланий
🇵🇱 rozczochrany
🇯🇵 くしゃくしゃ
🇫🇷 ébouriffé
🇪🇸 despeinado
🇹🇷 dağınık
🇰🇷 헝클어진
🇸🇦 مبعثر
🇨🇿 rozcuchaný
🇸🇰 rozstrapatený
🇨🇳 凌乱的
🇸🇮 razmršen
🇮🇸 óreiðulegt
🇰🇿 тәртіпсіз
🇬🇪 დაშლილი
🇦🇿 dağınıq
🇲🇽 despeinado