First Known Use: 1567
Dictionary
hug
verb \ˈhəg\
: to put your arms around someone especially as a way of showing love or friendship
: to hold (something) tightly with your arms
: to stay close to (something)
huggedhug·ging
Full Definition of HUG
transitive verb
1
: to press tightly especially in the arms
2
a : congratulate b : to hold fast : cherish <hugged his miseries like a sulky child — John Buchan>
3
: to stay close to <the road hugs the river>
— hug noun
— hug·ga·ble \ˈhə-gə-bəl\ adjective
— hug·ger noun
See hug defined for English-language learners
See hug defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of HUG
perhaps of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse hugga to soothe
Related to HUG
- Synonyms
- compliment, felicitate, congratulate
HUGGABLE Defined for Kids
1hug
verb \ˈhəg\
huggedhug·ging
Definition of HUG for Kids
1
: to clasp in the arms : embrace
2
: to keep close to <The ship hugged the coast.>
2hug
noun
Definition of HUG for Kids
: 2embrace
Learn More About HUG
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up hug? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).