Hag

/hæɡ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
An old woman, often considered to be ugly or unpleasant.
The villagers whispered tales of the hag who lived in the dark forest.
A witch or sorceress, often depicted as malevolent.
In folklore, the hag cast spells on those who dared to trespass her domain.
A term used to refer disdainfully to a woman, often implying she is spiteful or malicious.
She called her ex-friend a hag after their bitter argument over the shared project.

Etymology

Middle English 'hagge', from Old English 'haggen' meaning 'to haggle' or 'to harass'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

hags in folklore:
Refers to the portrayal of hags as witches with magical abilities.
stone the hag:
An expression denoting a harsh or unjust action against a woman perceived as a witch.
hag-ridden:
Being oppressed or tormented, historically thought to be by a witch.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

An unattractive or unpleasant woman.
Don't be such a hag, lighten up!
A term used jokingly among friends to refer to one another in a playful manner.
Hey, hag! What are you up to today?