hygge

American  

[hoog-uh] / ˈhʊg ə /

noun

1. (especially in reference to the Danish lifestyle) the feeling of coziness and contentment evoked by simple comforts, as being wrapped in a blanket, having good conversations, enjoying food, etc..

   Holidays are full of hygge for me and my family.

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adjective

1. cozy and comforting.

   This room is very hygge with its soft cushions and warm fireplace.

Usage

What does hygge mean? Hygge is a Danish cultural concept and value of warm, happy coziness, and togetherness, which people make time for in everyday life. Outside of Denmark, hygge is commonly referred to as "the good feeling you get from a well-curated, cozy, and aesthetically pleasing environment."

Etymology

Origin of hygge

First recorded in 1960–65; from Danish: literally, “coziness, comfort”

Explanation

You might feel a strong sense of hygge, or comfort and coziness, while reading beside a fire with a blanket and a cup of tea, or chatting late into the night with old friends. The word hygge exists in both the Danish and Norwegian languages, but it is especially important in Danish culture. A key element of hygge is not just the idea of coziness and comfort, but in finding joy in simple parts of life. The latest model of mattress might make you more physically comfortable, but it won't, by itself, give a sense of hygge. On the other hand, a lazy morning in bed might.

Example Sentences

Convincing a handful of fishermen and a few million Hygge practitioners to give the U.S. essential—if not formal—run of Greenland is simple, and pretty much already done.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 15, 2026

Hygge: Brew up some cocoa, light a fire and wrap it over you as the wind roars outside.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 1, 2022

"Plus, wallpaper borders are more DIY-friendly, so there's no need to pay for a professional installation," Christiana Coop, co-founder of Hygge & West, adds.

From Salon • Aug. 2, 2022

Price: $29+ SpaceTime Coordinates The Hygge Game If you want a low-stakes group activity for friends and family, The Hygge Game might be what you're looking for.

From The Verge • Jan. 27, 2022

However, last time I checked, the designer store across the street here in Ann Arbor, Michigan, had moved its selection of Hygge branded candles to the clearance corner.

From Slate • Apr. 28, 2021