I. ˈtēz transitive verb
( teased ; teas·ing )
Etymology: Middle English tesen, from Old English tǣsan; akin to Old High German zeisan to tease
Date: before 12th century
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
Synonyms: see worry
• teas·ing·ly ˈtē-ziŋ-lē adverb
II. noun
Date: 1680
1. : the act of teasing : the state of being teased
2. : one that teases