by hook or by crook

phrase

: by any means

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1529, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of by hook or by crook was circa 1529

See more words from the same year

Browse Nearby Words

by heart

by hook or by crook

by-hour

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“By hook or by crook.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20hook%20or%20by%20crook. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.

Copy Citation

Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

Popular in Grammar & Usage

More Words You Always Have to Look Up

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

by hook or by crook

phrase

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

putative