Main Entry: ¹hack

Pronunciation: \ˈhak\

Function: verb

Etymology: Middle English hakken, from Old English -haccian; akin to Old High German hacchōn to hack, Old English hōc hook

Date: 13th century

transitive verb 1 a : to cut or sever with repeated irregular or unskillful blows b : to cut or shape by or as if by crude or ruthless strokes <hacking out new election districts> c : annoy, vex —often used with off
2 : to clear or make by or as if by cutting away vegetation <hacked his way through the brush>
3 a : to manage successfully <just couldn't hack the new job> b : tolerate <I can't hack all this noise>intransitive verb 1 a : to make chopping strokes or blows <hacked at the weeds>; also : to make cuts as if by chopping <hacking away at the work force> b : to play inexpert golf
2 : to cough in a short dry manner
3 : loaf —usually used with around
4 a : to write computer programs for enjoyment b : to gain access to a computer illegally

— hack it 1 : cope 2b <I can't hack it any longer>
2 : to be successful <couldn't hack it in the world of professional sports>