tease
1 of 2verb/tiz/
Forms:teases,teasing,teased,teased
1
to playfully annoy someone by making jokes or sarcastic remarks
transitive- Siblings often tease each other as a form of playful banter.
- Friends may tease one another with good-natured humor during social gatherings.
- Colleagues at the office like to tease each other to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
- Couples may tease each other affectionately, adding a touch of humor to their relationship.
2
to add height and texture to hair by gently combing it backward in small sections
transitive- She teased her hair to give it more volume for the party.
- The stylist carefully teased each layer to achieve a fuller look.
- He teased the roots to create a lifted effect at the crown.
- She teased the ends lightly to make her ponytail appear thicker.
- Teasing her hair gave it the perfect amount of texture and body.
Synonyms:
3
to gently comb or brush tangled hair in order to make it smooth and separated
transitive- She teased the knots from her hair with a gentle brush.
- He teased her curly hair to make it easier to style.
- She teased the strands gently, avoiding any painful pulling.
- She teased her damp hair with a wide-tooth comb for a smooth finish.
Synonyms:
4
mock or make fun of playfully
5
separate the fibers of
Synonyms:
6
to use a teasel to raise or lift the fibers of fabric
transitive- The artisan teased the wool fabric to give it a soft, raised texture.
- She carefully teased the nap of the velvet with a teasel to enhance its feel.
- The weaver teased the cloth using traditional methods to create a unique pattern.
- The tailor teased the fabric with a teasel to raise the fibers before dyeing it.
- The fabric was teased to raise the fibers, giving it a distinctive, textured finish.
7
to rip or shred something into small parts
transitive- He teased the paper into small pieces before throwing it in the trash.
- He teased the old letter to shreds, unable to hold back his frustration.
- The dog teased the toy apart, leaving bits of fabric everywhere.
- He teased the poster off the wall, causing it to rip in the process.
- She teased the napkin in her hands, ripping it absentmindedly.
8
to flirt or provoke someone in a suggestive way without intending to fulfill any romantic or physical interest
transitive- She enjoyed teasing him with a playful smile before walking away.
- He teased her with flirtatious comments, knowing he wouldn’t pursue anything.
- She often teased him with lingering glances and subtle touches.
- He would tease her with charming words but never followed through.
- She teased him by leaning close, then stepping back with a laugh.
9
to repeatedly bother or provoke someone with small, persistent demands or requests
transitive- She kept teasing him for a ride, even though he had already said no several times.
- The child teased her parents with constant questions about the trip.
- He teased his friend by asking when he would finish the homework, again and again.
- She teased her coworker by repeatedly asking when the project would be ready.
- The students teased the teacher, constantly asking for an extension on the assignment.