muss up

transitive verb

1

: to batter or handle roughly : beat, maul

wanted to get there in time to muss him up a bit

—J. F. Fishman

2

: to make chaotic or incoherent : confuse

sold them liquor, and generally mussed up the situation

—William Kent

The Ultimate Dicitonary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now