1
: activity or excitement that is unusual and that often is not wanted or necessary
They got down to business without any fuss.
What is all the fuss about?
Her new novel has caused quite a fuss.
—often used with makeWe'd love to come to dinner, but please don't make a fuss. [=don't do a lot of extra things that you would not usually do]
(US) Everyone made such a fuss over the baby. = (Brit) Everyone made such a fuss of the baby. [=everyone paid a lot of excited attention to the baby]
2
: an expression of anger or complaint especially about something that has little importance
She accepted the new assignment without any fuss. [=she did not complain about the new assignment]
—often used with makeShe accepted the new assignment without making any fuss.
I don't want to make a fuss, but this soup is cold.
fusses; fussed; fussing
1
: to be or become upset or worried
She'll fuss the whole time we're gone.
I told him not to fuss.
Note: In informal British English, someone who is not fussed is not bothered or worried.
2
US
: to show that you are annoyed or unhappy
The baby fussed all day.
Stop fussing and get to work!
He's fussing about his new assignment.
Cite this Entry
“Fuss.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/fuss. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.
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