tug
verb (used with object)
to pull at with force, vigor, or effort.
tugging
-
present participleof tug.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Really labored breathing, kind of tugging in their belly, tugging between their ribs.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 28, 2026
It refers to the way a rotating black hole twists the spacetime around it, tugging on nearby matter such as stars and causing their paths to wobble.
From Science Daily ● Dec. 18, 2025
The starchy pasta water, slowly whisked in, binds it all into a sauce that clings and stretches, tugging at each bite with just enough tension to remind you that this is pasta, not soup.
From Salon ● Dec. 18, 2025
“Other components of the economy are tugging on the consumer,” said Ivan Drury, an automotive analyst for the car-shopping website Edmunds.com.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 1, 2025
Sela rose, a gentle smile tugging at the corner of her mouth.
From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith
