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

• huggable adjective
• hugger noun
• huggingly adverb
• unhugged 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

She will be remembered for that hug with Novotná, her dignity and quiet compassion, and as a reluctant royal, who eventually decided that her true path lay in teaching children to love music.

From BBC

Although my visit was prompted by two automotive conferences — the Women Automotive Network Detroit Summit and AutoTech — the city wrapped me in a warm, welcoming hug and left me with countless memories.

From Salon

At his final concert as music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic 16 years ago, every musician in the orchestra stood in line onstage to hug a red-faced Esa-Pekka Salonen.

From Los Angeles Times

Called Just Be There, the artwork is described as an "avenue of hugs captured in clay" and will feature at the British Ceramics Biennial, which begins in Stoke-on-Trent on Saturday.

From BBC

We can kick and scream or we can surrender, hug our loved ones and focus on what we can do today.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• embrace