Pig

/pɪɡ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A term used to refer to a person who is regarded as greedy or gluttonous.
He ate so much at the buffet, he looked like a pig.
A specific breed of domestic pig, typically characterized by certain traits.
The Yorkshire pig is known for its high-quality meat.
A domesticated swine, often raised for food, with a large body, short legs, and a flat snout.
The farmer raised a herd of pigs for bacon and pork chops.
verb
To spend time doing nothing or to indulge excessively in an activity.
After a long week, I just want to pig out and binge-watch my favorite shows.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old Norse 'pygg' meaning pig or swine.

Common Phrases and Expressions

when pigs fly
An expression meaning something will never happen.
pig out
To eat a lot of food greedily.
sweating like a pig
The phrase describes someone sweating profusely; ironic, since pigs don't actually sweat much.

Related Words

porcine
Relating to or resembling pigs.
pork
The meat obtained from pigs.
piggeries
Places where pigs are bred.

Slang Meanings

A greedy or gluttonous person.
Don't be such a pig at the buffet!
A police officer.
They were yelling at the pigs during the protest.
To act in a vulgar or clumsy manner.
He pigged out on his birthday, eating three pieces of cake.