mug
noun · verb
Simple meaning
With handle and usually cylindrical.
Pronunciation
Say it like this:
muhgIPA pronunciation (US)
ˈmʌɡ
This word is pronounced essentially the same in American and British English, so one transcription covers both.
IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) is a standard way of writing speech sounds.
Definition
Everyday modern meanings first, grouped by part of speech.
noun
With handle and usually cylindrical
A large cup for beverages, usually having a handle and used without a saucer.
(UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, derogatory, slang) A stupid or contemptible person.
Any of various mainly Buddhist peoples of Aracan, especially bordering on Bengal, or residing near the sea.
verb
intransitive
To exaggerate a facial expression for communicative emphasis; to make a face, to pose, as for photographs or in a performance, in an exaggerated or affected manner.
transitive
To photograph for identification; to take a mug shot of.
(UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, slang) To learn or review a subject as much as possible in a short time; cram.
transitive
To assault for the purpose of robbery.
Word at a Glance
- Difficulty
- B1 · Intermediate (estimated)
- Frequency
- Moderately Common
- Typical Use
- Neutral / general English
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Common Patterns and Combinations
How this word naturally appears with others.
Word Family
Related forms, grouped by how they connect.
Compound terms
Established multiword terms.
Study intensively, as before an exam.
A mug intended for serving beer.
A receptacle for urination or defecation in the bedroom.
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