Tease

Etymology

Middle English tesen, from Old English tǣsan; akin to Old High German zeisan to tease

• Date: before 12th century

Definitions

• 1 a : to disentangle and lay parallel by combing or carding <tease wool>

b : teasel

• 2 : to tear in pieces; especially : to shred (a tissue or specimen) for microscopic examination
• 3 a : to disturb or annoy by persistent irritating or provoking especially in a petty or mischievous way

b : to annoy with petty persistent requests : pester; also : to obtain by repeated coaxing

c : to persuade to acquiesce especially by persistent small efforts : coax

d : to manipulate or influence as if by teasing

e : to make fun of : kid

• 4 : to comb (hair) by taking hold of a strand and pushing the short hairs toward the scalp with the comb
• 5 : to tantalize especially by arousing desire or curiosity often without intending to satisfy it

Description

Teasing is a word with many meanings. In human interactions, teasing comes in two major forms, playful and hurtful. When teasing is playful and friendly, and especially when it is reciprocal, teasing can be regarded as flirting. People may be teased on such matters as their appearance, weight, behavior, abilities, and clothing. From the victim's point-of-view, this kind of teasing is often hurtful, irrespective of the intention of the teaser. When teasing is unwelcome, it may be regarded as harassment or mobbing, especially in the work place, or as a form of bullying or emotional abuse. If done in public, it may be regarded as humiliation. One may also tease an animal. Some animals, such as dogs and cats, may recognize this as play.