Meaning & Definition
noun
The sound made by a machine, especially a steam engine, when it is operating.
We could hear the chug of the freight train from miles away.
A drink taken in a gulp.
After the race, he took a chug of his energy drink.
verb
To make a repeated muffled explosive sound, like that of a steam engine or a similar machine.
The train began to chug down the tracks, filling the air with its rhythmic sound.
To drink a beverage quickly and continuously.
He chugged a bottle of water after the intense workout.
Etymology
Perhaps imitative of the sound of a steam engine or a similar noise.
Common Phrases and Expressions
chug along:
To proceed steadily; to move on.
chug a drink:
To drink something quickly.
Slang Meanings
To drink large quantities quickly
He chugged his drink before heading out to the dance floor.
To move or operate slowly or laboriously
The old truck chugged up the steep hill.