Meaning & Definition of word "Toss"

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    Toss

    /tɒs/

    noun:

    • 1. an act of throwing something.
      • Example: With a quick toss, he sent the paper airplane soaring.
    • 2. a casual throw or movement.
      • Example: She gave the dog a toss of the frisbee.
    • 3. a random selection, as in tossing a coin.
      • Example: The toss of a coin determined who would go first.

    verb:

    • 1. to throw something lightly or casually.
      • Example: She decided to toss the ball to her friend.
    • 2. to turn over or rearrange something.
      • Example: He will toss the salad before serving.
    • 3. to throw out or dispose of something.
      • Example: I need to toss these old newspapers into the recycling.
    • 4. to make a quick decision, often by flipping a coin.
      • Example: They couldn't decide on a restaurant, so they opted to toss a coin.

    Etymology

    Originating from Middle English 'tos(s)en', frequentative of 'tossen', akin to Old Norse 'tossa' meaning 'to throw'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    toss and turn:

    To move about restlessly while trying to sleep.

    toss up:

    To make a decision by throwing a coin or to express uncertainty.

    toss aside:

    To discard or dismiss something.

    Related Words

    tossing:

    The act of throwing or flinging something.

    toss-up:

    An uncertain outcome that is difficult to predict.

    Slang Meanings of toss

    Meaning: To abandon someone or something.

    Example Sentence: He totally tossed his friends when he got popular.

    Meaning: To mess something up.

    Example Sentence: I tossed my homework right before it was due.