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”

Example Sentences

Famously stoic Scandinavians have cultivated concepts like "hygge" -- or coziness -- to get them through the long winter nights.

From Barron's

Plan your escape to place where you can learn to play polo from a master, the shops are all hygge and the wine flows like water at countless estates.

From Los Angeles Times

From welcoming your guests with their own cozy throw to providing individual slippers, providing comfort is the cornerstone of hygge.

From Seattle Times

This New-England-like region gives first inklings of that hygge feeling — the Danish word for quiet winter comfort.

From Seattle Times

If not, sorrows can be drowned in the epitome of "hygge" - a cup of hot chocolate.

From BBC