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Hock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hock

[hɒk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

body part

The term 'hock' refers to the joint in the hind leg of a quadruped, such as a horse or dog. It is comparable to the ankle in humans and is often associated with the ability to jump or pivot. Athletes in certain sports may experience hock injuries, which can affect their performance. Understanding the anatomy of the hock is important for veterinarians and animal trainers alike.

Synonyms

ankle, joint.

Examples of usage

  • The horse injured its hock while jumping.
  • Veterinarians often check the hock for signs of swelling.
  • Proper training can help prevent hock injuries in dogs.
Context #2 | Verb

hit or strike

To 'hock' something means to hit or strike it with force, often in a playful or rough manner. This usage can be heard in various contexts, including sports or informal interactions. The action of hocking something typically connotes a sudden movement, and while it can be playful, it might also imply a degree of aggression.

Synonyms

hit, strike, whack.

Examples of usage

  • He hocked the ball across the field.
  • She hocked the door open with her foot.
  • The dog hocked the stick, making everyone laugh.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • In horses, the hock joint is crucial for jumping and running, impacting performance in sports like show jumping.
  • The hock is a complex joint that allows for both flexibility and strength in animals, essential for movement.
  • Common issues in hocks include injuries or arthritis, which can affect an animal's mobility significantly.

Culinary

  • Hock often refers to a specific cut of meat from the joint of a pig’s leg, used in dishes like ham hocks or split pea soup.
  • The hock is prized in cooking for its flavor and is commonly used in slow-cooked recipes where the meat becomes tender and savory.
  • In various cuisines, hocks are smoked or cured, lending depth to many hearty stews and soups.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'hock' appears in various slang forms and expressions, often indicating something of low value or quality.
  • In sports, 'hocking' can colloquially refer to a strong kick used to propel a ball, linking back to the power of the hind leg.
  • Hocks are often featured in farm-related media, showcasing their role in animal husbandry and agriculture.

Origin of 'hock'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Hock' comes from the Middle English word 'hok,' which means 'ham' or 'joint' and relates to the word we use for the back leg of animals.
  • The term has been used since the late 14th century to describe the disjointed part of legs.
  • In the context of hock joints, the term connects to both animals and culinary references, like 'hock of ham.'

The word 'hock' has its origins in Middle English 'hoc', which referred to the bend of the knee. This term evolved from the Old English 'hoc', meaning 'hook', likely because of the hook-like appearance of the joint in animals. Over time, its use expanded to include not only the anatomical joint in quadrupeds but also various meanings in specific contexts, such as sports and casual interaction. The verb form 'to hock' derives from the same root, showcasing how language evolves to adapt different contexts and uses over centuries. Today, 'hock' maintains its relevance in both anatomical discussions and informal communication.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,613, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.