hug

[huhg]

verb (used with object)

hugged, hugging 

1. to clasp tightly in the arms, especially with affection; embrace.

2. to cling firmly or fondly to; cherish.

   to hug an opinion.

3. to keep close to, as in sailing, walking, or in moving along or alongside of.

   to hug the shore;

   to hug the road.

verb (used without object)

hugged, hugging 

1. to cling together; lie close.

noun

1. a tight clasp with the arms; embrace.

hug

/ hʌɡ /

verb

1. (also intr) to clasp (another person or thing) tightly or (of two people) to cling close together; embrace

2. to keep close to a shore, kerb, etc

3. to cling to (beliefs, etc); cherish

4. to congratulate (oneself); be delighted with (oneself)

noun

1. a tight or fond embrace

Other Word Forms

• hugger noun
• huggingly adverb
• unhugged adjective
• huggable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hug¹

First recorded in 1560–70; perhaps from Old Norse hugga “to soothe, console”; akin to Old English hogian “to care for”

Word History and Origins

Origin of hug¹

C16: probably of Scandinavian origin; related to Old Norse hugga to comfort, Old English hogian to take care of

Example Sentences

The day dawned foggy, but the low blanket of mist that hugged the land the day before had lifted.

From Los Angeles Times

The children who live on the farm were overjoyed by the rescue and greeted their goat with big hugs.

From Los Angeles Times

Deported by Israel, they were greeted at the airport with warm hugs from family and colleagues.

From BBC

Afterward, Logan received lots of hugs and a special trophy from athletic director Tony Barile.

From Los Angeles Times

When Freeman got to the mound, he exchanged an embrace with Kershaw, who also hugged the rest of his infield teammates.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• embrace