Hug Meaning: Embrace Definition and Examples

Meaning 1：to embrace closely (hug)

hug 🔊

/hʌɡ/

v./n.

To put your arms around someone and hold them close to show love, comfort, or greeting.

Two people hugging on a park bench in sunny weather

to embrace closely 🔊

➕

/tuː ɪmˈbreɪs ˈkloʊsli/

v./n.

Put your arms around someone and hold them tightly, usually to show love, comfort, or greeting.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：初级

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Origin from Old Norse 'hugga' meaning to comfort, later evolving into the sense of embracing.

💡 Mnemonic

Imagine saying 'hug' as you wrap your arms around someone, feeling the comfort in the sound itself.

📖 Example

After a long day at school, the little girl ran to her mom and gave her a big, warm hug. 🔊 After a long day at school, the little girl ran to her mom and gave her a big, warm hug.

🔗 Collocations

give someone a hug – to embrace someone as a gesture of affection

hug someone tightly – to hold someone firmly in one's arms

a warm hug – an affectionate and comforting embrace

🔄 Synonyms

embrace (v./n.) – to hold someone closely in your arms, often with affection

cuddle (v./n.) – to hold someone close and lovingly, often in a gentle, prolonged way

clasp (v./n.) – to hold someone or something tightly with your arms or hands

🚫 Antonyms

push away (v.) – to use force to move someone away from you, opposite of hugging

shove (v.) – to push someone roughly, indicating rejection or aggression

repel (v.) – to drive someone away or cause them to feel distaste or avoidance

🌱 Derivatives

hugger (n.) – a person who hugs often or enjoys hugging

hugging (n.) – the act of giving hugs

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'hug' entered English from Old Norse 'hugga' (to comfort), likely via Scandinavian settlers. It replaced older terms like 'clyppan' and became the standard term for a warm, affectionate embrace.