noun / verb

toss

TAWSS/tɔːs/

A quick light throwing movement.

The man gives the small ball a casual upward toss.

An older man casually tosses a small ball a short distance upward from one open hand, with relaxed posture and no forceful windup.

Etymology

The origin is uncertain, though a Scandinavian source has been suggested. Early uses meant lifting or throwing upward suddenly, giving the modern light or casual throw a background of quick movement.

In context

JoCat141:20

i am going to uh reach into my coat and i'm going to toss the dagger into the muck

Let the Hunt Begin - Belkinus Necro Hunt D&D Session 1

More examples

Toss the salad gently to coat the leaves with dressing.
He tosses and turns when he cannot sleep.
A coin toss decides which team goes first.

Forms

toss · tosses · tossed · tossing

Similar words

throw: Broader term that does not imply a light, quick motion.
flip: Emphasizes turning something over rather than simply throwing it.
lob: Specifies a high, curved path rather than a quick movement.