Hook

huk

/hʊk/

Noun, Verb

Meaning

Hook (noun): A curved or bent device designed to catch, hold, pull, or suspend objects; also used figuratively to describe something that attracts attention or interest.
Hook (verb): To catch, attach, draw in, or secure something using a hook or hook-like motion; metaphorically, to captivate or engage someone.

Examples

He hung his coat on the hook behind the door.
The fisherman baited the hook before casting the line.
The opening line of the article had a strong hook that kept readers engaged.
The song’s catchy chorus managed to hook listeners instantly.
She hooked the bag onto her arm and walked away.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms	Antonyms
Noun: Clasp Hanger Crook Catch Barb Verb: Attach Catch Snag Captivate Engage Lure	Noun: Release Detachment Verb: Disengage Detach Repel Lose interest

Word Forms

Hooks (plural noun)
Hooked (past tense / adjective)
Hooking (present participle / gerund)
Hooker (noun – contextual usage required)
Hook-like (adjective)

Origin / Etymology

The word “hook” originates from Old English hōc, meaning a bent piece of metal or wood. It has Germanic roots, related to Old Norse krókr and Middle Dutch hoek, all referring to curved or angular shapes. Over time, the word evolved to include figurative meanings, such as attracting attention or forming an emotional or psychological pull.

Grammar Information

Countable noun: a hook, several hooks
Transitive verb: to hook something
Intransitive verb (figurative): to hook into an idea
Commonly used in phrasal verbs and idiomatic expressions

Translations

Hindi: हुक (huk), काँटा (kaanta)
Telugu: కొక్కెం (kokkem)
Tamil: கொக்கு (kokku)
Spanish: gancho
French: crochet
German: Haken
Arabic: خطاف (khataf)

Idioms & Phrases

Get hooked: To become extremely interested or addicted
By hook or by crook: By any means necessary
Hook, line, and sinker: Completely and without doubt
Off the hook: Free from responsibility or trouble
A catchy hook: An attention-grabbing element (especially in content, music, or marketing)