The word toss in literature carries a range of meanings, moving fluidly between the physical and the metaphorical. It can describe a literal, abrupt movement—as when characters toss objects or their own heads to signal indifference, defiance, or light-heartedness ([1], [2], [3], [4]). In more dynamic settings, writers evoke the forces of nature or turbulent action with toss, depicting crashing waves or flung firebrands in epic battles ([5], [6], [7]). The term also lends itself to expressions of chance or uncertainty, neatly encapsulated in phrases like “toss-up” to reflect unpredictable outcomes ([8], [9], [10]). Whether illustrating the casual gesture of a character redirecting their attention with a nonchalant head toss ([11], [12]) or conjuring the imagery of a tempestuous seascape where elements are continually tossed about ([13], [14]), toss remains a versatile word. Its varied usage deepens the texture of narrative action and character expression across genres and historical periods, creating vivid scenes and subtly conveying shifts in mood or tone.