hoggerel

noun

hog·​ger·​el
ˈhäg(ə)rəl
plural -s
British
: a young sheep
usually : hog sense 2a

Word History

Etymology

Middle English (Scots dialect), diminutive of hogge hog, sheep

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hoggerel was in 1530

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near hoggerel

Cite this Entry

“Hoggerel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hoggerel. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!