Minor problems, difficulties, or annoyances that cause inconvenience or irritation. Often refers to bureaucratic obstacles or everyday frustrations that waste time or energy.
American slang from the 1940s, possibly from dialectal 'hassel' meaning to breathe heavily or pant. Alternative theories suggest connection to 'tussle' or German 'hasten' (to hurry), reflecting the frantic energy of dealing with annoying problems.
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