Tug

/tʌg/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a strong pull or tug.
He gave the rope a firm tug to see if it was secure.
a small, powerful boat used to tow larger vessels.
The tug maneuvered alongside the cargo ship to assist it into the harbor.
verb
to pull or drag something with a sharp or sudden movement.
She had to tug the stubborn suitcase out of the trunk.
to exert a strong influence or pull on something.
The child felt a tug in her heart when she saw the abandoned puppy.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old Norse 'tog' meaning 'to pull.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

tug at someone's heartstrings:
to evoke deep emotions in someone
tug of war:
a contest in which teams pull on opposite ends of a rope
tug the forelock:
to show respect or deference

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To engage in a sexual act (often referring to masturbation)
He decided to tug one out before going to sleep.
To leave quickly or suddenly
Let's tug out of here before the cops arrive.