sag
sag
Sag (verb) means to sink or bend downward in the middle from weight or pressure. Example: “The old bookshelf began to sag under the weight of the encyclopedias.”
verb
1
To sink or bend downward in the middle from weight or pressure.
"The old bookshelf began to sag under the weight of the encyclopedias."
"The tent roof sagged after the heavy rain."
2
To lose energy, firmness, or morale over time.
"Team spirits began to sag after the third straight loss."
noun
1
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
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo droop, sink, or bend downward — or, figuratively, to lose strength or enthusiasm.
Common pairings
sag under the weight
morale sags
a sagging economy
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Word forms
- Plural
- sags
- Third person singular
- sags
- Past tense
- sagged
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The old bookshelf began to _____ under the weight of the encyclopedias.
Etymology
From Middle English saggen, likely borrowed from a Scandinavian source related to Old Norse sokkva ("to sink").
Synonyms
View more →Related words
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.
