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Fuzz vs Fuss - What's the difference?

fuzz | fuss |

In transitive terms the difference between fuzz and fuss

is that fuzz is to make fuzzy while fuss is to pet.

In intransitive terms the difference between fuzz and fuss

is that fuzz is to become fuzzy while fuss is to fiddle; fidget; wiggle, or adjust; to worry something.

fuzz

English

(wikipedia fuzz)

Etymology 1

* Some dictionaries suggest a Germanic source * Some dictionaries suggest a

Noun

  • A frizzy mass of hair or fibre.
  • * 1895 , Hamlin Garland, Rose of Dutcher's Coolly , page 352:
    • His cheeks were like peaches, with much the same sort of fuzz over them.
  • A blurred image.
  • (computing) The random data used in fuzz testing.
  • (obsolete) A state of befuddlement.
  • * 1784 , Jonathan Swift, "Journal to Stella", The works of the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Swift , page 54:
    • I think I'm in a fuzz , and don't know what I ?ay, I never ?aw the like.

    Verb

    (es)
  • To make fuzzy.
  • To become fuzzy.
  • (dated) To make drunk.
    • (Wood)

    Etymology 2

    Unknown

    Noun

    (-)
  • The police.
  • * 2009 , , 0:26:17:
    • Let's get the hell out of here before the fuzz turns up

    fuss

    English

    Noun

    (es)
  • Excessive activity, worry, bother, or talk about something.
  • * (Thomas Carlyle) (1795-1881)
    • zealously, assiduously, and with a minimum of fuss or noise
  • *{{quote-book, year=1935, author= George Goodchild
    • , title=Death on the Centre Court, chapter=1 , passage=“Anthea hasn't a notion in her head but to vamp a lot of silly mugwumps. She's set her heart on that tennis bloke
  • # A complaint or noise.
  • # An exhibition of affection or admiration.
  • One who is unduly anxious about trifles.
  • * (1837-1920)
    • I am a fuss and I don't deny it.

    Verb

    (es)
  • To be very worried or excited about something, often too much.
    • His grandmother will never quit fussing over his vegetarianism.
  • To fiddle; fidget; wiggle, or adjust; to worry something
    • Quit fussing with your hair. It looks fine.
  • (especially of babies) To cry or be ill-humoured.

    • Usage notes

    * Generally used with with, over, or about.

    Verb

    (head)
  • To show affection for, especially animals.
  • To pet.
    • He fussed the cat.

    Derived terms

    * fussy * fuss and bother * no muss no fuss

    References