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.
She just kept going, and her kids were tugging at her.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 16, 2026
After tugging his short shot at history left of the hole, Herbert bent over in disappointment before composing himself to tap in.
From BBC ● Jul. 17, 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
Ivy frowned and shook her head disapprovingly, but she didn’t keep tugging Josie toward the exit, just back closer to the wall.
From "The School for Whatnots" by Margaret Peterson Haddix
