töpseli

Töpseli is a Finnish word that can refer to several related concepts, primarily involving a small, often round or knob-like object, or a person's nose. In its most common usage, töpseli describes a small, rounded protuberance or button. This can be seen in everyday objects, such as a small decorative knob on furniture or a fastener on clothing. The term often carries a sense of slightness or diminutiveness.

Beyond inanimate objects, töpseli is also a colloquial and often affectionate term for the nose, particularly a child's nose. It evokes an image of a small, perhaps slightly upturned or snub nose. The word can be used by parents or caregivers when speaking to children, adding a layer of endearment to the description.

The etymology of töpseli is not definitively established, but it is believed to be onomatopoeic, possibly mimicking the sound of something small and soft being pressed or touched. Its usage is primarily informal and widespread in spoken Finnish, though it occasionally appears in written contexts, especially in children's literature or informal prose. The word's versatility allows it to describe both tangible objects and a prominent facial feature with a consistent undertone of smallness and roundness.