Tug Definition & Meaning

tug
noun
  1. a sudden abrupt pull
  2. a powerful small boat designed to pull or push larger ships
verb
  1. pull hard; "The prisoner tugged at the chains"; "This movie tugs at the heart strings"
  2. strive and make an effort to reach a goal; "She tugged for years to make a decent living"; "We have to push a little to make the deadline!"; "She is driving away at her doctoral thesis"
  3. tow (a vessel) with a tug; "The tugboat tugged the freighter into the harbor"
  4. carry with difficulty; "You'll have to lug this suitcase"
  5. move by pulling hard; "The horse finally tugged the cart out of the mud"
  6. pull or strain hard at; "Each oar was tugged by several men"
  7. struggle in opposition; "She tugged and wrestled with her conflicts"

"Tug" in song lyrics

See how tug is used in real songs:

  • "I give the mic a tug"
    Dilated Peoples f/ Aceyalone — The Shape of Things to Come
  • "California thugs tug"
    Layzie Bone f/ Mr. Capone-E, Mr. Criminal — We Ain't Hard to Find
  • "Show me some heart, let me tug"
    P.O.S. f/ Slug — Bush-League Psych-Out Stuff

Words that rhyme with tug

Usage tips for "tug"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "tug" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for tug to find words that pair well.

Use "tug" in a verse

Now that you know what "tug" means, try using it in your own lyrics:

Generate a verse

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