What does hook mean?
A hook is most commonly a curved or angled piece of metal used to hang, fasten, catch, or hold an object. The word also names any pronounced bend or curve, as well as the pointed curved device used in fishing. As a verb, “hook” means to catch, fasten, pull, or turn something with a hook, and it can also mean to attract someone's attention or interest. In writing and speech, a “hook” is an attention-grabbing element designed to hold an audience's interest. Informal expressions such as “get hooked” suggest becoming especially interested in or attached to something. Related senses include a sharp boxing blow and the old telecommunications connector on which a telephone receiver was hung. Although the word is simple and familiar, it is especially useful when discussing curves, fastening devices, fishing, attention, and the mechanisms that make a story or performance difficult to disengage from.
A curved or angled piece of metal, or another device, used for hanging, fastening, catching, or holding an object; by extension, a pronounced bend or curve.
"The gate had broken loose from one of its hooks."
When referring specifically to a sharp, pointed metal curve used for catching fish, the word is usually modified as “fishing hook” or used in the plural with fishing.
To catch, fasten, pull, or turn something with a hook; also, informally, to attract someone's attention or interest.
"The angler hooked a small silver fish."
The informal sense of attracting or strongly engaging someone is especially common in speech and in discussions of entertainment, advertising, and storytelling.
The plural is commonly used for individual fastening devices and fishing hooks.
"She hung several keys on separate hooks by the entrance."
From coat hooks to fishing hooks and the suspenseful “hook” of a story, this word captures the satisfying idea of something that catches, holds, or draws you in.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hook
The English word comes from Old English hōc, used for a hook, peg, or similar fastening device. It continued in Middle English with meanings that included both fastening tools and curved or bent objects. The word is cognate with modern Dutch haak and German Haken, both meaning “hook,” reflecting its Germanic origin.
Related word forms
How hook is actually used
The word is neutral in most senses. In informal contexts, “hook” can mean an attraction or something that draws a person in, as in “He's got a real hook for music.” “Hook” as a boxing blow is chiefly British, while the storytelling and attention-grabbing senses are common internationally.
Easily confused with hook
A hook is generally sharp or designed to fasten or catch, whereas a crook is a smooth, curved staff or bend.