n.
Pronunciation: ' hak
Function: verb
Etymology: Middle English hakken, from Old English -haccian; akin to Old High German hacch ō n to hack, Old English h ō c hook
Date: 13th century
transitive verb
1 a : to cut or sever with repeated irregular or unskillful blows b : to cut or shape by or as if by crude or ruthless strokes < hack ing out new election districts> c : ANNOY , VEX ― often used with off
2 : to clear or make by or as if by cutting away vegetation < hack ed his way through the brush>
3 a : to manage successfully <just couldn't hack the new job> b : TOLERATE <I can't hack all this noise>
intransitive verb
1 a : to make chopping strokes or blows < hack ed at the weeds> also : to make cuts as if by chopping < hack ing away at the work force> b : to play inexpert golf
2 : to cough in a short dry manner
3 : LOAF ― usually used with around
4 a : to write computer programs for enjoyment b : to gain access to a computer illegally
– hack it
1 : COPE 2B <I can't hack it any longer>
2 : to be successful <couldn't hack it in the world of professional sports>