Main Entry: ¹hook

Pronunciation: \ˈhu̇k\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Old English hōc; akin to Middle Dutch hoec fishhook, corner, Lithuanian kengė hook

Date: before 12th century

1 a : a curved or bent device for catching, holding, or pulling b : something intended to attract and ensnare c : anchor 1
2 : something curved or bent like a hook; especially plural : fingers
3 : a flight or course of a ball that deviates from straight in a direction opposite to the dominant hand of the player propelling it; also : a ball following such a course — compare slice
4 : a short blow delivered with a circular motion by a boxer while the elbow remains bent and rigid
5 : hook shot
6 : buttonhook
7 : quick or summary removal —used with get or give <the pitcher got the hook after giving up three runs>
8 : a device especially in music or writing that catches the attention
9 : a selling point or marketing scheme
10 : cradle 1b(2)

— by hook or by crook : by any means

— off the hook 1 : out of trouble
2 : free of responsibility or accountability

— on one's own hook : by oneself : independently