Tousling

Tousling describes the action of playfully or roughly disarranging someone's hair, typically by running one's hand through it. It can also refer to a similar action applied to other things, like a bedsheet or a garden. The act implies a lack of meticulous care and often conveys affection, mischief, or casualness. The result of tousling is usually a messy, unkempt, or slightly ruffled appearance. The word captures the tactile sensation of fingers interacting with hair, fabric, or other materials. It often suggests a light-hearted, informal interaction, differentiating it from more aggressive acts like hitting or pulling.

Tousling meaning with examples

• He couldn't help but tousling his son's hair, a habitual display of affection as the boy excitedly chattered about his day at school. The gesture, simple yet profound, demonstrated his deep love and pride. This tender act always brought a smile to his son's face, a clear testament to their strong bond, and the playful start to every evening.
• The wind, a playful giant, took great delight in tousling the freshly cut wheat field, creating waves of shimmering gold that flowed across the landscape. The farmer, appreciating the beauty, watched as the breeze danced through the stalks. It was a captivating sight, a symphony of nature's playful touch, which highlighted the elegance of simple, natural movements.
• Exhausted after a long day, she flopped onto the bed and gave the covers a quick tousling, seeking the comfort of a relaxed, informal embrace. The act, both practical and symbolic, signalled the end of her work day and the beginning of well-deserved rest. The disarray gave the space a lived-in feel, creating a tranquil escape after a day of busy work.
• In a moment of playful rebellion, the model, after the elaborate photoshoot, decided to take her perfectly coiffed hair and give it a good tousling, shedding the constraints of perfection. This brought forth a cascade of natural, unconstrained strands which contrasted her prior formal look. It showed her rebellious spirit, embracing the freedom of self-expression and a renewed confidence.