1
as in to congratulate
to express to (someone) admiration for his or her success or good fortune
she hugged herself for having made a killing on the investment
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to clasp
to put one's arms around and press tightly
Grandma hugged the grandchildren good-bye
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of hug
Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 4 May 2026
That spirit is exemplified by Ford, a gregarious hostess who moves through the various groupings of women in a diaphanous full-length blue dress, introducing Godfred to a group of attendees and hugging both first-timers and her OGs enthusiastically.
—Paula L. Woods, Los Angeles Times, 4 May 2026
Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2026
And over 33 years, Clyburn – a civil rights activist, party strategist, and political kingmaker – has built his political network one handshake and one hug at a time.
—Robert Costa, CBS News, 26 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for hug
Verb
The clip included footage of the employees poignantly waving goodbye to a Spirit jet from the tarmac, with one even dropping to his knees to hug the plane.
—Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 4 May 2026
That spirit is exemplified by Ford, a gregarious hostess who moves through the various groupings of women in a diaphanous full-length blue dress, introducing Godfred to a group of attendees and hugging both first-timers and her OGs enthusiastically.
—Paula L. Woods, Los Angeles Times, 4 May 2026
Noun
The English wrestler gave Lee a hug in the middle of the ring, but assaulted her.
—Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2026
And over 33 years, Clyburn – a civil rights activist, party strategist, and political kingmaker – has built his political network one handshake and one hug at a time.
—Robert Costa, CBS News, 26 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for hug
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hug
Verb
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Sometimes, the crowd at a nearby ballpark will issue a rousing cheer – as if congratulating you on a hike well done.—
John Metcalfe,
Mercury News,
4 May 2026
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When students redeem their award, the restaurant manager will congratulate them and give them a colorful BJ's Awesome Achievement silicone bracelet.—
Mike Snider,
USA Today,
4 May 2026
Verb
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McDaniels held onto Murray for dear life — often literally clasping his jersey — as the Nuggets tried to run him off every conceivable screen.—
Bennett Durando,
Denver Post,
1 May 2026
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While the other candidates pressed their palms against the podiums, ready to pounce on every question, Becerra clasped his hands like an altar boy.—
Gustavo Arellano,
Los Angeles Times,
23 Apr. 2026
Noun
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But the growing embrace of computerized systems has at times meant fewer pencil-and-paper contingency plans when technology breaks down.—
Cayla Bamberger,
New York Daily News,
29 Apr. 2026
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Darren Criss and Mia Criss embrace on the carpet at the opening night of The Lost Boys on Broadway on April 26 in New York City.—
Toria Sheffield,
PEOPLE,
29 Apr. 2026
Verb
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The brothers couldn’t afford public transportation, often sneaking rides by clinging to the backs of trolleys until conductors forced them off.—
Milena Malaver,
Miami Herald,
2 May 2026
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Webb pitched a perfect eighth inning with the Cubs clinging to a one-run lead.—
Andy Martinez,
Chicago Tribune,
1 May 2026
Noun
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That still leaves three slots up for grabs.—
Joe Reid,
Vulture,
2 May 2026
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The grab handles, as well as much of the build plate assembly, are covered with plastic, which gives the machine a less-than-premium feel.—
Michael Lydick,
PC Magazine,
2 May 2026
Verb
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Defying rigid architecture, the home’s interior features free-flowing lines and curves that cradle a freestanding soaking tub, sculptural walk-in shower, fireplace, and spacious beds.—
Kristin Braswell,
Architectural Digest,
29 Apr. 2026
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The defendant would cradle the victim with his arms.—
Lauryn Overhultz,
FOXNews.com,
20 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Hug.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hug. Accessed 8 May. 2026.
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