The word "mugs" is spelled using the English alphabet and represents the pronunciation /mʌɡz/. The initial sound of the word is represented by the letter "m" which is pronounced as /m/. The "u" in "mugs" is pronounced as /ʌ/ which is a vowel sound that is similar to "uh." The ending of the word is represented by the letter "g" followed by "s" which is pronounced as /ɡz/. Therefore, "mugs" is pronounced as /mʌɡz/.
Mugs, in the context of a dictionary definition, can refer to two different meanings.
Firstly, as a noun, a mug is typically a cylindrical-shaped cup with a handle, designed for holding and drinking hot or cold beverages, such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. It is typically made of ceramic, porcelain, glass, or sometimes even metal. Mugs often have a capacity of around 8 to 12 fluid ounces (240 to 350 milliliters), although larger or smaller sizes are available depending on the specific purpose or preference. Mugs come in various designs, colors, and patterns, making them popular for personal use or as collectibles. They may also feature additional features, such as a lid or a double wall to maintain temperature.
Secondly, as a verb, "mugs" refers to the act of attacking or robbing a person, often in a sudden or aggressive manner. This usage of the term is slang and more commonly associated with criminal activity. A mugger is an individual who commits such acts, typically targeting victims on the street or in public places. This term is mostly used in informal conversations or within specific contexts, such as crime reports or discussions about personal safety. The verb form of "to mug" can also be extended metaphorically to describe someone who uses aggressive or intimidating tactics in dealing with others, though this usage is less common.
The word "mugs" is derived from the 17th-century slang term "mug", which originally referred to a person's face. It likely comes from the earlier usage of "mug" as a drinking vessel or cup, which dates back to the 16th century. The exact origin of "mug" as referring to a person's face is unclear, but it may have originated from the idea of a face resembling the shape of a mug or from the notion of a person's face being like the handle of a mug that can be grabbed or held. Over time, this slang term expanded to mean a person's head or general appearance and eventually led to the usage of "mugs" to refer to photographs or pictures of people's faces.