How Do You Spell HUGGER MUGGER?

Pronunciation: [hˈʌɡə mˈʌɡə] (IPA)

Hugger mugger, meaning to keep something secret or hidden, is a curious compound word whose spelling reflects its pronunciation. According to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it is pronounced /ˈhʌɡə mʌɡər/. The "hugger" part is pronounced with a short u sound, while the "mugger" part uses a schwa sound. The double g's in both words indicate a hard g sound, and the double consonants signify a stressed syllable. The origin of the phrase is unclear, but its intriguing phonetic structure adds to its appeal.

HUGGER MUGGER Meaning and Definition

1. Hugger-mugger is an adjective that refers to something done in a secretive, clandestine, or covert manner. It can also be used as a noun to describe a state of confusion, disorder, or chaos. This term originated from the Middle English word "huggeren," meaning "to lie in wait," and "mugge," meaning "to conceal." Together, they formed "huggermugger," which initially denoted a person who hid to ambush or deceive others.

   In its adjective form, hugger-mugger describes actions or behavior characterized by stealth, secrecy, or concealment. It implies that the activity being conducted is done in a clandestine or furtive manner, often with an intent to deceive or maintain privacy. For example, conducting business meetings in a hugger-mugger fashion may suggest illicit dealings or an intention to keep certain information hidden.

   As a noun, hugger-mugger signifies a state of confusion, commotion, or disarray. It describes a chaotic or disorderly situation where things are disorganized and lacking clarity. This can be attributed to secrecy or the attempt to keep things hidden, leading to confusion or misunderstanding. For instance, a company operating with hugger-mugger practices may experience internal conflicts, miscommunications, or unclear objectives.

   Overall, hugger-mugger conveys a sense of secrecy, concealment, or confusion, presenting a negative connotation due to its association with deceit, hidden motives, or disorderliness.

2. • Secrecy.

   • Secret; clandestine; confused; disorderly.

   • Privately; clandestinely.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HUGGER MUGGER

• gugger mugger
• bugger mugger
• nugger mugger
• jugger mugger
• uugger mugger
• yugger mugger
• hygger mugger
• hhgger mugger
• hjgger mugger
• higger mugger
• h8gger mugger
• h7gger mugger
• hufger mugger
• huvger mugger
• hubger mugger
• huhger mugger
• huyger mugger
• hutger mugger
• hugfer mugger
• hugver mugger

Etymology of HUGGER MUGGER

The etymology of the phrase "hugger-mugger" traces back to Middle English and has evolved over time. It originated from the combination of two separate words.

1. Hugger: The word "hugger" was derived from the Old Norse word "hugga", meaning "to comfort" or "to embrace".

2. Mugger: The word "mugger" was derived from the Middle English word "mug", meaning "a stealthy action" or "to rob".

During the late 16th century, these two words were combined to form the phrase "hugger-mugger". Initially, it referred to secretive or furtive behavior, often associated with criminals or thieves. The phrase eventually expanded in usage and began to imply confusion, disorder, or a sense of chaos.

Similar spelling words for HUGGER MUGGER

• hugger-mugger,
• high jumper.