Pronunciation: [hˈɔːɡ] (IPA) 
The spelling of "hawg" is a phonetic representation of the American Southern dialect pronunciation of "hog." It is commonly used as a slang term for a pig or a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The IPA phonetic transcription of "hawg" is /hɔɡ/. The use of the "w" indicates the dialectal pronunciation of the "o" sound, which is pronounced farther back in the mouth than a standard English "o." The "g" at the end is also pronounced more strongly.
Hawg is a slang term that primarily refers to a large or heavy motorcycle, specifically a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The origin of the term can be traced back to the biker culture of the 1960s and 1970s, where enthusiasts of these motorcycles would affectionately refer to their beloved Harley-Davidsons as "hawgs."
The term is often used to emphasize the size, power, and distinctive design of these motorcycles, which are known for their large engines, loud exhaust systems, and robust appearance. Hawgs typically have an iconic V-twin engine layout, which contributes to their unique sound and performance.
In addition to motorcycles, the term "hawg" can also be used to describe other forms of transportation or machinery that are large, powerful, or heavy. It can be used as a noun to refer to such an object or as an adjective to describe something as hawg-like.
The usage of "hawg" can also extend beyond vehicles and machinery to describe a person who is large, strong, or imposing. In this context, it is typically used in a lighthearted or affectionate manner to highlight someone's physical attributes.
Overall, "hawg" is a slang term predominantly used in biker communities to describe large motorcycles, particularly those manufactured by Harley-Davidson.
The word "hawg" is derived from the term "hog", which originally comes from the Old English word "hogg" and the Middle English word "hogge". It referred to a young, growing pig. Over time, the term "hog" came to be associated with larger domesticated pigs. In American English, the spelling "hawg" emerged as a slang term to specifically refer to a motorcycle, particularly the Harley-Davidson brand. It gained popularity in the mid-20th century among motorcycle enthusiasts and biker culture. This transformation in meaning is often attributed to the loud rumble or "hog-like" sound that the motorcycles produced. The altered spelling "hawg" is considered a colloquial variant, primarily used within the context of motorcycle culture.
