hug

[ huhg ]

verb (used with object)

, hugged, hug·ging.

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, hug·ging.

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

Derived Forms

• ˈhuggable, adjective
• ˈhugger, noun

Other Words From

• hugger noun
• hugging·ly adverb
• un·hugged 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

“I need help,” one man told her as she offered him a hug.

From Los Angeles Times

There are very few sidewalks in L.A., so I just hug the side of the road and hope for the best.

From Los Angeles Times

From de Waal's 1982 book "Chimpanzee Politics" to 2019's "Mama's Last Hug: Animal Emotions and What they Tell Us about Ourselves," attitudes about whether animals might have thoughts worthy of scientific exploration changed dramatically.

From Science Daily

During Foden's trial, the court heard colleagues saw him go to his car with one of his victims and hug her.

From BBC

Harper and Ray both highlighted the unconditional love they share with their dogs, with Ray noting, "They never talk back and they always want to hug you . . . it's such a beautiful circle of love" and Harper saying that his dogs teach him unconditional love "on a daily basis."

From Salon

Related Words

• cling to