English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com

hedgehog

The origin and history of hedgehog.

Etymology

From Middle English heyghoge — "hedge" (because it roots around hedgerows) plus "hog" (for its pig-like snout). The military and philosophical uses of "hedgehog" come from the animal's trademark defense: curling into a spiky, impenetrable ball.

Origin: Middle English

← Back to the full definition of hedgehog
Etymology: FreeDict original editorial.