hug
verb (used with object)
to clasp tightly in the arms, especially with affection; embrace.
were hugging
-
past progressiveof hug.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
People in the stands were hugging and screaming into each other's faces.
From BBC ● Apr. 25, 2026
In the lobby of the downtown hotel where she was staying after her clandestine journey, crowds of Venezuelans were hugging and crying in the early hours of Thursday, waiting for Machado to emerge.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 11, 2025
Long after the conclusion, Palos Verdes players were hugging each other on the field saying goodbyes.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 4, 2023
And after its late run, they started getting burned and Hurley and Co. were hugging it out on the bench before the buzzer.
From Seattle Times ● Apr. 3, 2023
Up in the audience, my mom and dad were hugging each other and crying, and I bet they were asking themselves the very same thing!
From "Courage to Soar" by Simone Biles
