First Known Use: 1606
Dictionary
1plug
noun \ˈpləg\
: a part at the end of an electric cord that has two or three metal pins that connect the cord to a source of electricity
: a part at the end of a wire or cable that is used to connect machines or devices
: a thing that is used to close a hole in a container or object
Full Definition of PLUG
1
a : a piece used to fill a hole : stopper b : an obtruding or obstructing mass of material resembling a stopper
2
: a flat compressed cake of tobacco
3
: a small core or segment removed from a larger object
4
: something inferior; especially : an inferior often aged or unsound horse
5
a : hydrant, fireplug b : spark plug
6
: an artificial fishing lure used primarily for casting and made with one or more sets of gang hooks
7
: any of various devices resembling or functioning like a plug: as a : a male fitting for making an electrical connection to a live circuit by insertion in a receptacle (as an outlet) b : a device for connecting electric wires to a jack
8
: a piece of favorable publicity or a favorable mention usually incorporated in general matter
See plug defined for English-language learners
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Origin of PLUG
Dutch, from Middle Dutch plugge; akin to Middle High German pfloc plug
2plug
verb
: to fill or cover (a hole, space, etc.) with something
: to praise (something, such as a book, movie, or restaurant) publicly in a way that makes people want to buy it, see it, etc. : to advertise (something) by talking about it especially on the radio or television
: to shoot (someone) with a gun
pluggedplug·ging
Full Definition of PLUG
transitive verb
1
a : to stop, make tight, or secure by inserting a plug b : to remedy (a deficiency) as if by inserting a plug <trying to plug the gaps in their understanding>
2
: to hit with a bullet : shoot
3
: to advertise or publicize insistently
intransitive verb
1
: to become plugged —usually used with up
2
: to work doggedly and persistently <plugged away at her homework>
3
: to fire shots
— plug·ger noun
— plug into
1
: to connect or become connected to by or as if by means of a plug <the city was plugged into the new highway system>
2
: to load into as if by means of a plug <plugged the data into a computer>
See plug defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of PLUG
1630
PLUG Defined for Kids
1plug
noun \ˈpləg\
Definition of PLUG for Kids
1
: a device usually on a cord used to make an electrical connection by putting it into another part (as a socket)
2
: a piece (as of wood or metal) used to stop up or fill a hole
2plug
verb
pluggedplug·ging
Definition of PLUG for Kids
1
: to connect to an electric circuit <Plug in the lamp.>
2
: to stop or make tight with something that fills a hole
3
: to keep steadily at work or in action <I plugged away at my homework.>
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