What's a noogie between friends? No, really. . .

[BeagleMommy]

You mention that he is in his 20s.  A lot of times guys in their teens and early/mid 20s use this type of physical teasing as a way to show affection.  If you don't want him to do it I would simply say "Hey, please don't give me noogies.  I really don't like them." in a friendly way.  If he continues despite your request to stop then you can be more vocal.

[sweetonsno]

It wasn't painful at all, kind of like mussing hair with his knuckles instead of his fingertips. It didn't bother me at all. I just wasn't quite sure what to do. He's cute and single, but I've known him for quite awhile and he hasn't ever made a move, so it could have been a Philadelphia-style noogie (one of Brotherly Love).

[johelenc1]

In elementary school, when a boy likes a girl, he pulls her hair, chases her and otherwise engages in odd physical activity.

He likes you.

[SleepyKitty]

In elementary school, when a boy likes a girl, he pulls her hair, chases her and otherwise engages in odd physical activity.

He likes you.

I would agree. In my experience (which is admittedly just my own  ), guys don't touch your head/face/hair/neck area unless it's a flirty thing.

[MrTango]

It wasn't painful at all, kind of like mussing hair with his knuckles instead of his fingertips. It didn't bother me at all. I just wasn't quite sure what to do. He's cute and single, but I've known him for quite awhile and he hasn't ever made a move, so it could have been a Philadelphia-style noogie (one of Brotherly Love).

In that case, I guess you need to decide if you like him too.  If you're interested, "wink back*"

*My GMIL's advice to my MIL when my FIL kept winking at her in band class in high school.

[Moray]

I'll second MrTango.

You need to decide if you wish to continue to receive noogies, and then, if you wish to flirt with this guy. Once you've decided those two things, act accordingly. There's no secret code here

[missknowledge]

You'll know for sure if he likes you when he slugs you in the arm at recess.

I agree with others...a gentle noogie shows affection.

Or dips your pigtail in the inkwell.

[KitKat]

My experience is a gentle boogie is a sign of affection and would indicate he felt very comfortable around you.  If you don't like it, duck away and say with a smile Don't.

I must be a meanie...I don't want any boogies!   

I agree with the pp.  Sounds like he likes you.

[jpcher]

My experience is a gentle boogie is a sign of affection and would indicate he felt very comfortable around you.  If you don't like it, duck away and say with a smile Don't.

Wait. Are Boogies and Noogies the same thing?

I must be a meanie...I don't want any boogies!   

I agree with the pp.  Sounds like he likes you.

[LifeOnPluto]

Gosh. The last time I gave/received a noogie I was 16. It's a tad... unusual for adults to be giving them, IMO.

If you like this guy, I guess you could always noogie him back? If not, I'd be inclined to simply say something like: "Please don't. I'm not a fan of noogies."

[LeveeWoman]

Gosh. The last time I gave/received a noogie I was 16. It's a tad... unusual for adults to be giving them, IMO.

If you like this guy, I guess you could always noogie him back? If not, I'd be inclined to simply say something like: "Please don't. I'm not a fan of noogies."

FREE NOOGIES FOR EVERYONE!

[Ygraine]

Does anyone remember "Night Court"?
"Let the record show the judge was noogied"....

[Nora]

A gentle noogie = affection/greeting

Desired response: a smile from the noogie "victim", and the possibility of later retaliation.

He could be flirting, but he could also just be a friendly type.