sag
4 synonyms for sag, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To sink or bend downward in the middle from weight or pressure.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To sink or bend downward in the middle from weight or pressure.
“The old bookshelf began to sag under the weight of the encyclopedias.”
2. noun
A droop or dip where something has sunk or bent.
“There's a noticeable sag in the middle of the mattress.”
How to use sag
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
sag under the weight
morale sags
a sagging economy
Etymology
From Middle English saggen, likely borrowed from a Scandinavian source related to Old Norse sokkva ("to sink").
Full origin of sag →Frequently asked questions
What does “sag” mean?
The word “sag” means to sink or bend downward in the middle from weight or pressure. In plain terms, to droop, sink, or bend downward — or, figuratively, to lose strength or enthusiasm.
How do you pronounce “sag”?
“Sag” is pronounced sag (/sæɡ/ in IPA).
How do you use “sag” in a sentence?
Here is “sag” used in a sentence: “The old bookshelf began to sag under the weight of the encyclopedias.”
What part of speech is “sag”?
Depending on how it is used, “sag” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “sag” come from?
The word “sag” comes from Middle English. From Middle English saggen, likely borrowed from a Scandinavian source related to Old Norse sokkva ("to sink").
Is “sag” a common word?
“Sag” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “sag” have?
“Sag” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to sink or bend downward in the middle from weight or pressure.
