a bunch or cluster of small, usually soft and flexible parts, as feathers or hairs, attached or fixed closely together at the base and loose at the upper ends.

a cluster of short, fluffy threads, used to decorate cloth, as for a bedspread, robe, bath mat, or window curtain.

a cluster of cut threads, used as a decorative finish attached to the tying or holding threads of mattresses, quilts, upholstery, etc.

a covered or finished button designed for similar use.

a cluster of short-stalked flowers, leaves, etc., growing from a common point.

a small clump of bushes, trees, etc.

a gold tassel on the cap formerly worn at English universities by titled undergraduates.

a titled undergraduateat an English university.

to furnish or decorate with a tuft or tufts.

to arrange in a tuft or tufts.

Upholstery . to draw together (a cushion or the like) by passing a thread through at regular intervals, the depressions thus produced being usually ornamented with tufts or buttons.

to form into or grow in a tuft or tufts.

noun

bunch , cluster , collection , cowlick , feathers , group , knot , plumage , ruff , shock , topknot , tussock , batch , beard , bundle , clump , crest , goatee , mound , tassel , wisp