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Wag: meaning, definitions and examples

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wag

[wæɡ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

dog's tail

To move (a part of the body) up and down or from side to side, especially quickly and repeatedly, typically as a signal of playful or excited greeting.

Synonyms

flutter, wave, wiggle.

Examples of usage

  • He wagged his tail enthusiastically when he saw his owner.
  • The dog wagged its tail happily as it greeted the guests.
Context #2 | Noun

dog's tail

The action of moving (a part of the body) up and down or from side to side, especially quickly and repeatedly, typically as a signal of playful or excited greeting.

Synonyms

flutter, wave, wiggle.

Examples of usage

  • The dog greeted us with a friendly wag of its tail.
  • The puppy's wag was a clear sign of happiness.

Translations

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Etymology

The word 'wag' originated in Middle English, derived from the Old English word 'wagian' which means 'to shake, wag'. It has been used to describe the movement of a dog's tail as a sign of greeting or excitement for centuries. Over time, the word has also been extended to describe similar movements in other contexts, such as waggling a finger or wagging a tongue.

See also: wage, waggle, wagon.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,236, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.