frog

noun

ˈfrȯg

ˈfräg

: any of various largely aquatic leaping anuran amphibians (such as ranids) that have slender bodies with smooth moist skin and strong long hind legs with webbed feet compare toad

: the triangular elastic horny pad in the middle of the sole of the foot of a horse see hoof illustration

: a loop attached to a belt to hold a weapon or tool

: an ornamental braiding for fastening the front of a garment that consists of a button and a loop through which it passes

often capitalized disparaging + offensive : frenchman

: a device permitting the wheels on one rail of a track to cross an intersecting rail

: a condition in the throat that produces hoarseness

had a frog in his throat

: the nut of a violin bow

: a small holder (as of metal, glass, or plastic) with perforations or spikes for holding flowers in place in a bowl or vase

Word History

Etymology

Middle English frogge, from Old English frogga; akin to Old High German frosk frog; senses 2, 3, 5, 7, 8 unclearly derived & perhaps of distinct origin

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of frog was before the 12th century

See more words from the same century

Cite this Entry

Style

“Frog.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frog. Accessed 5 Feb. 2023.

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Kids Definition

frog

noun

ˈfrȯg

ˈfräg

: any of various tailless leaping amphibians that have slender bodies with smooth moist skin and strong long hind legs with webbed feet and that spend more of their time in the water than the related toads

: a hoarse condition

have a frog in one's throat

: an ornamental fastening for a garment (as a jacket)