hugs; hugged; hugging
1
: to put your arms around someone especially as a way of showing love or friendship
I hugged him close.
She hugged her daughter.
We hugged briefly, and then it was time to say goodbye.
2
: to hold (something) tightly with your arms
I hugged my knees to my chest.
3
: to stay close to (something)
The road hugs the river.
The boat hugged the shore.
body-hugging clothing [=clothes that are tight]
plural hugs
: the act of putting your arms around someone or something as a way of showing love or friendship
hugs and kisses
He gave me a big hug. [=he hugged me]
Cite this Entry
“Hug.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/hug. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
