mug

mug · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A large cup with a handle, typically used for hot drinks.

  2. 2.

    (Informal) A person's face.

  3. 3.

    (British, informal) A gullible person; someone easily deceived.

Forms

plural: mugs

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    mug shot — A photograph of a person's face, especially taken by police
  • •
    a mug's game — An activity likely to be unsuccessful or unprofitable

Related words

See also: beaker, cup, glass, mugged
Synonyms: beaker, cup

Etymology

From Scandinavian origin, related to Norwegian mugge and Swedish mugg ("pitcher, jug"). The slang meaning "face" arose in the 18th century from drinking vessels decorated with grotesque faces.