Hog

Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

IPA: /hɒɡ/ (British), /hɔːɡ/ (American)

Definitions

• (Noun) A domesticated pig, especially one reared for slaughter.
• (Noun) A greedy or selfish person.
• (Verb) To take or use more than one's fair share of something.

Usage Examples

• The farmer raised several hogs for the market.
• Don't be such a hog—leave some cake for others.
• He always hogs the remote control while watching TV.

Etymology

Derived from Old English "hog(g)," meaning a young sheep, later evolving to mean a pig in Middle English.

Synonyms

Pig, Swine, Boar (for animal); Glutton, Greedy person (for metaphorical use)

Antonyms

Sharer, Giver, Generous person

Translations

More languages omitted for brevity.

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some American English dialects, "hog" is pronounced with a longer vowel, while in British English, it tends to be shorter and sharper.

Historical Usage

In medieval England, the term "hog" was used primarily for sheep before being applied more commonly to pigs in later centuries.

Cultural Nuances

The term "hog" is often used in colloquial expressions, such as "hogging the road" (driving selfishly) or "high on the hog" (living in luxury).

More Information

Hogs have been domesticated for thousands of years and are a staple of agriculture worldwide. They play significant roles in cuisine, economy, and even cultural symbolism.