hedgehog
Hedgehog (verb) means to curl into a tight defensive ball, or to set up spiky defenses, the way a hedgehog protects itself. Example: “The troops hedgehogged their position with anti-tank spikes.”
How to use hedgehog
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo defend by curling up or bristling with spikes, like the small spiny mammal does.
You'll usually meet "hedgehog" as a noun for the animal itself; this verb form is much rarer, mostly military or figurative.
Trace the full origin ↓Word forms
hedgehogged past tense, hedgehogs singular
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.
Frequently asked questions
What does “hedgehog” mean?
The word “hedgehog” means to curl into a tight defensive ball, or to set up spiky defenses, the way a hedgehog protects itself. In plain terms, to defend by curling up or bristling with spikes, like the small spiny mammal does.
How do you pronounce “hedgehog”?
“Hedgehog” is pronounced HEHJ-hog (/ˈhɛd͡ʒ.hɔɡ/ in IPA).
How do you use “hedgehog” in a sentence?
Here is “hedgehog” used in a sentence: “The troops hedgehogged their position with anti-tank spikes.”
What part of speech is “hedgehog”?
“Hedgehog” is a verb.
Where does the word “hedgehog” come from?
The word “hedgehog” comes from Middle English.
Is “hedgehog” a common word?
“Hedgehog” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.