What does hitched mean?
“Hitched” is the past tense and past participle of “hitch.” It describes pulling or moving something with a short, forceful motion, as in hitching a trailer to a car, or fastening or attaching something in a temporary or secure way. The word also appears in the informal expression “hitch a ride,” meaning to travel in someone else’s vehicle, and in “hitchhike,” where a traveller obtains a lift by asking passing motorists for one. In figurative use, “hitch a ride” can mean to rely on an event or development to bring about a desired result. “Hitched” is common in both British and American English and is used in literal transport, outdoor, and mechanical contexts as well as informal social situations.
To pull or move something with a short, abrupt motion; to fasten or attach it; or, informally, to obtain a lift in someone else’s vehicle.
"He hitched the horse to the fence and waited."
The meaning varies with context, especially in informal expressions such as “hitch a ride.”
Attached or secured, especially by a hitch or fastening; also used informally to describe a person who has become married.
"They arrived in a hitched car with their belongings piled inside."
The marital sense is informal and chiefly used in the expression “get hitched.”
From getting a ride by hitching a thumb to hitching a trailer, the word describes pulling, fastening, and joining things together.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hitched come from?
The verb “hitch” comes from Middle English “hytchen” or “hitchien,” probably related to a Germanic root meaning to bend, pull, or move unevenly. Its development into meanings involving fastening and transport reflects the idea of securing or attaching a moving object. The related word “hitchhike” developed in the 19th century from “hitch” and “hike,” originally referring to travel on foot or by short stages before becoming associated with obtaining lifts from passing vehicles.
Related word forms
How hitched is actually used
The word is neutral in register. “Hitch a ride” and “hitchhike” are informal but widely accepted, especially in British and American English. The expression “get hitched” is also informal and can mean to become married.
Easily confused with hitched
“Hitch” is the base verb, while “hitched” is its past tense and past participle.
“Hitched” refers to pulling, moving, or fastening something, whereas “itched” usually means feeling an irritating skin sensation or strongly wanting something.