tussle
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈtʌsəl/
KK: /ˈtʌsəl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To engage in a rough or energetic struggle or fight, often involving pushing or pulling.
Example
The children began to tussle playfully in the backyard.
Tense Forms
Past: tussled
Past Participle: tussled
Conversation
Did you see those kids tussle on the playground today?
Yeah, they were really going at it!
I hope they didn't get hurt during that tussle.
I think they were just having fun, but it looked intense!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
struggle
scuffle
wrestle
Antonyms
reconcile
agree
calm
noun
Definition
A rough or energetic fight or struggle, often involving physical contact or disagreement.
Example
The two players had a tussle for the ball during the game.
Conversation
Did you see that tussle at the park yesterday?
Yeah, it looked pretty intense!
I wonder what sparked the whole tussle in the first place.
Root Explanation
Tussle originates from the Middle English word 'tussel', which is derived from the Old French 'toussel', meaning to pull or tug. The word describes a struggle or scuffle, often involving pulling or pushing.
Memory Tip
Imagine a struggle where people are 'pulling' and 'tugging' at each other — that's what tussle means.
Visually Confused Words
tousle
tule