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Shag: meaning, definitions and examples

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shag

 

[ ʃæɡ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

informal term

The term 'shag' most commonly refers to a style of dance that originated in the late 1930s in the Carolinas, known for its energetic and lively movements, usually performed to beach music. Additionally, it can refer to an informal term for sexual intercourse. This usage is often considered slang and can vary in acceptability based on context and audience. The word also describes a rough or shaggy texture, often used in reference to carpets or hairstyles, evoking a sense of coziness or a relaxed state.

Synonyms

dance, haircut, rug, sexual intercourse, texture

Examples of usage

  • They danced the shag at the beach party.
  • The shag on the carpet feels soft underfoot.
  • He made a shag cigarette, rolling the tobacco loosely.
  • The shag haircut was popular in the 70s.
  • After the party, the couple had a shag.
Context #2 | Verb

informal situation

As a verb, 'shag' refers to the act of engaging in sexual intercourse, often used in a casual or humorous context. This usage highlights a more relaxed attitude towards intimacy and personal relationships. In different cultures, the connotation of this word can vary significantly, and it may be considered vulgar or inappropriate in certain settings. Moreover, the verb can also refer to the act of dancing the shag, which highlights the playful and carefree nature of the dance.

Synonyms

dance, fool around, hook up, intercourse

Examples of usage

  • They decided to shag after their dinner date.
  • We learned how to shag properly during dance class.
  • It's all about having fun when you shag.
  • They shagged all night at the music festival.
  • She likes to shag when she's in a good mood.

Translations

Translations of the word "shag" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cabelo desgrenhado

🇮🇳 झगड़ा

🇩🇪 Haarschnitt

🇮🇩 gundul

🇺🇦 кучеряве волосся

🇵🇱 rozczochrane włosy

🇯🇵 シャグ

🇫🇷 cheveux en désordre

🇪🇸 pelo despeinado

🇹🇷 dağınık saç

🇰🇷 흐트러진 머리

🇸🇦 شعر غير مرتب

🇨🇿 rozcuchané vlasy

🇸🇰 neusporiadané vlasy

🇨🇳 凌乱的头发

🇸🇮 razmršeni lasje

🇮🇸 klóruð hár

🇰🇿 бұйра шаш

🇬🇪 გახვეული თმა

🇦🇿 qarışıq saç

🇲🇽 pelo despeinado

Etymology

The word 'shag' originates from the Old English word 'sceaga,' which means 'a bush' or 'a thicket,' referencing the shaggy appearance of certain types of vegetation. The term evolved through Middle English to denote a rough, loose texture. By the late 19th century, 'shag' began appearing in different contexts, including the description of haircuts and carpets. The dance form associated with the term emerged in the 1930s, primarily evolving in the southern United States, particularly in the Carolinas. This dance became synonymous with beach music and laid the groundwork for the popularity of shag dancing in the 1950s and beyond. The sexual connotation of the term 'shag' gained momentum in the later 20th century, particularly in British slang, where it became widely recognized in popular culture and music, suggesting a more liberated approach to sexual expression. As language continues to evolve, the meanings of 'shag' reflect changing attitudes toward both dance and intimacy.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,658 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.