Meaning & Definition of word "Hag"
Hag
/hæɡ/
noun:
- 1. An old woman, often considered to be ugly or unpleasant.
- Example: The villagers whispered tales of the hag who lived in the dark forest.
- 2. A witch or sorceress, often depicted as malevolent.
- Example: In folklore, the hag cast spells on those who dared to trespass her domain.
- 3. A term used to refer disdainfully to a woman, often implying she is spiteful or malicious.
- Example: 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
witch:
A person, often female, believed to have magical powers.
crone:
A derogatory term for an old woman, often depicted as malicious.
sorceress:
A woman who practices sorcery; a female magician.
Slang Meanings of hag
Meaning: An unattractive or unpleasant woman.
● Example Sentence: Don't be such a hag, lighten up!
Meaning: A term used jokingly among friends to refer to one another in a playful manner.
● Example Sentence: Hey, hag! What are you up to today?