tassel

noun

tas·sel | \ ˈta-səl ,

usually of corn ˈtä- , ˈtȯ- \

Definition of tassel

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 : a dangling ornament made by laying parallel a bunch of cords or threads of even length and fastening them at one end

2 : something resembling a tassel especially : the terminal male inflorescence of some plants and especially corn

tassel

verb

tasseled or tasselled; tasseling or tasselling\ˈta-s(ə-)liŋ

Definition of tassel (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

: to adorn with tassels

intransitive verb

: to put forth tassel inflorescences

Examples of tassel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web: Noun

Today, this summery style comes in countless iterations — some accented with tassels and pompoms, while others are rendered in interesting shapes. — Sari Anne Tuschman, latimes.com, "Summer’s hottest bag trend shouldn’t be saved for just beach days," 12 July 2018 In his bicorn hat with tassels suggesting the fluffy ears of an incorrigible dog, James Whiteside’s Harlequin took charge of his character with irrepressible energy and unbounded confidence. — Robert Greskovic, WSJ, "‘Harlequinade’ Review: Humor and History Take Center Stage," 6 June 2018 The rainbow raffia Straw Travel Tote from Loeffler Randall has removable pompom tassels. — Sari Anne Tuschman, latimes.com, "Summer’s hottest bag trend shouldn’t be saved for just beach days," 12 July 2018 Rain is necessary at this point in the plant’s life cycle as the plants produce pollen on the tassel, according to Rose. — David Anderson, The Aegis, "Harford corn crop delayed by spring rain, challenged by summer heat," 9 July 2018 Sway New York designer Mignonne Gavigan is best-known for her beaded scarf necklaces, beaded bracelets and tassel jewelry, too. — Carolyne Zinko, SFChronicle.com, "Style Radar: Express yourself with these Pride picks," 22 June 2018 The British socialite dressed in a forest green jumpsuit for the event, paired with a white blazer and lilac Bimba y Lola tassel earrings. — Erica Gonzales, Harper's BAZAAR, "Pippa Middleton Steps Out in a Chic Jumpsuit After Confirming Her Pregnancy," 15 June 2018 If your student is turning the tassel this spring, congratulations. — Tom Voelk, New York Times, "Cars That Will Get Your Grad Down the Road of Life," 19 Apr. 2018 From delicate embroidery and bell sleeves to playful tassels and a flattering waist-tie belt, every detail counts. — Minna Shim, Harper's BAZAAR, "A Charming Upgrade to the Peasant Dress," 23 June 2018

Recent Examples on the Web: Verb

The cape includes white ribbons on both shoulders, a large gold tasseled rope connecting both sides, and—the best part—a black velvet hat with an oversized ostrich feather, according to People. — Erica Gonzales, Harper's BAZAAR, "Prince William's Super Ornate Outfit in Scotland Is Full of Royal Symbolism," 6 July 2018 Other standouts include La Double J’s architectural and frond-laden teacups and saucers, and Gucci’s tasseled throw pillow embroidered with a panther’s piercing gaze. — Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, "MatchesFashion.com Launches Homeware—Because Gucci Shouldn’t Be Limited to Your Closet," 2 July 2018 Perhaps with some punchy pool floats (that won’t make your Instagram followers roll their eyes), or a Jenni Kayne tasseled hammock? — Elise Taylor, Vogue, "16 Poolside Accessories to Brighten Summer Parties," 15 June 2018 Corn needs about 1 inch of water a week, particularly when the stalks begin to tassel. — The Editors Of Organic Life, Good Housekeeping, "How To Grow Corn," 5 Apr. 2016 Melosh, on the other hand, paid for the graduationcap, gown and tassel herself. — Rachel Leingang, azcentral, "Want to participate in your graduation from an Arizona university? It will cost you," 28 Mar. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'tassel.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.