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Hag Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hag

[hæɡ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

evil spirit

A hag is an evil spirit or witch-like creature in folklore and fairy tales. Hags are often depicted as old, ugly women who cast spells and bring misfortune to people. They are commonly associated with dark magic and malevolent intentions.

Synonyms

crone, sorceress, witch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hag

Often used in a negative context to describe an old woman who is considered ugly or unpleasant. It has a pejorative connotation.

  • The villagers feared the old hag who lived in the forest.
  • She was insulted when they called her a hag.
witch

Can be used in both negative and neutral contexts. Negatively, it may refer to a woman who practices harmful magic. Neutrally, it can just refer to a female practitioner of magic.

  • They accused her of being a witch and practicing dark arts.
  • She learned the ways of a witch, brewing potions and casting spells.
crone

Refers to an old woman, typically one who is maybe seen as wise, but often the term carries a somewhat negative connotation.

  • The crone sat by the fire, telling stories of old times.
  • He sought the advice of the ancient crone who lived on the hill.
sorceress

Typically used in fantasy or mythology to describe a female who practices magic. The term doesn't necessarily carry a negative connotation.

  • The sorceress cast a powerful spell over the kingdom.
  • With her knowledge of ancient magic, the sorceress was revered by many.

Examples of usage

  • The old hag put a curse on the village.
  • The hag cackled with glee as she brewed her potion.
Context #2 | Noun

an unpleasant or ugly old woman

In modern usage, a hag can also refer to an unpleasant or ugly old woman. This derogatory term is often used to insult or belittle a woman based on her appearance or behavior, especially when she is perceived as cranky or mean.

Synonyms

crone, harridan, shrew.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hag

Typically used in folklore or fairy tales to describe an old and possibly frightful woman, often with magical powers. It can be derogatory if used to describe a real person.

  • The children were afraid to go into the forest because they believed a hag lived there
crone

Refers to a very old woman, often depicted as a withered and ugly figure in mythology or fairy tales. The term is old-fashioned and can be insulting if used to describe a real person.

  • The village believed that the crone who lived on the hill could foresee the future
harridan

Used to describe a strict, bossy, or belligerent old woman. This term has a negative connotation and is used to criticize someone's behavior.

  • The children dreaded visits from their harridan of a neighbor who constantly shouted at them
shrew

Describes a woman who is sharp-tongued, nagging, or difficult to deal with. It is derogatory and often used to criticize a woman's temperament.

  • Nobody wanted to work with her because she was known as a shrew who could make anyone's life miserable

Examples of usage

  • Don't listen to that old hag, she's always complaining.
  • She's such a hag, constantly spreading rumors.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Folklore

  • Hags are often depicted in folklore as shapeshifters, able to transform into animals or young women.
  • In many cultures, hags are seen as wise women who have deep connections to the earth or nature but also possess malevolent traits.
  • Tales from various regions, like the 'Hag of the Wavern' in English folklore, often show hags as both feared and revered figures.

Pop Culture

  • Hags appear frequently in fairy tales, like 'Hansel and Gretel', where an old witch lives in a candy house to lure children.
  • In modern media, hags have been reimagined, such as the iconic character of the Wicked Witch in 'The Wizard of Oz'.
  • Video games like 'The Witcher' also feature hags, emphasizing a blend of danger and allure.

Psychology

  • The portrayal of hags in stories often reflects societal fears of aging and the loss of beauty or vitality.
  • These characters can symbolize the fears surrounding feminine power, showcasing how society has viewed older women historically.
  • The archetype of the hag can be used in storytelling to explore themes of wisdom, danger, and the dual nature of femininity.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', the Weird Sisters serve as hags, embodying fate and dark prophecies.
  • Hags often symbolize the conflict between the mundane and the supernatural in classic literature, representing both danger and insight.
  • Contemporary fantasy writers utilize hags as complex characters rather than simple villains, adding depth to their stories.

Origin of 'hag'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hag' comes from the Old English 'hagge', originally meaning 'witch' or 'spirit'.
  • In ancient times, the term was sometimes used for a 'sorceress' or one who practices magic.
  • In Germanic languages, similar words suggest a connection to witches or eerie beings associated with nature.

The word 'hag' has its origins in Old English, where it originally meant 'witch' or 'fury'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the concept of an ugly or unpleasant old woman. The association of hags with supernatural powers and malevolence has persisted in folklore and literature throughout history.

See also: haggle.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,188, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.