v. & n.
v.tr. (hugged, hugging) 1 squeeze tightly in one's arms, esp. with affection. 2 (of a bear) squeeze (a person) between its forelegs. 3 keep close to (the shore, kerb, etc.). 4 cherish or cling to (prejudices etc.). 5 refl. congratulate or be pleased with (oneself).
n. 1 a strong clasp with the arms. 2 a squeezing grip in wrestling. huggable adj.
[ 16th c.: prob. f. Scand.: cf. ON hugga console ]