Word of the Day

: April 18, 2009

hoick

verb HOIK

What It Means

: to move or pull abruptly : yank

hoick in Context

When she noticed that her toddler's nose was running, Stacy quickly hoicked out a tissue from her purse.

Did You Know?

Etymologists suspect that "hoick" is an alteration of the verb "hike," which is itself akin to "hitch." "Hike" entered the language during the first decade of the 19th century, whereas "hoick" appeared near that century's close. The word "hoick" can be used for any type of abrupt pulling movement but is commonly used for the sudden pulling back on the joystick of an airplane; a rough, jerky movement when rowing; and a jerky, elevated shot in cricket. In fox hunting, the word "hoicks" is used to call attention to a hound that has picked up the scent and to bring the pack together.