What does mogged mean?
Mogged is an informal British adjective meaning exhausted, very tired, or worn out, generally because of hard work, exertion, or an exhausting experience. It describes both a temporary state and a physical condition after activity: a person might say they are “completely mogged” after a long shift, an arduous journey, or a difficult sporting event. The word often has a slightly strong, colloquial quality and is more common in speech than in formal writing, although it is also heard in journalism and entertainment contexts. It is related to the verb “mog,” meaning to toil or become worn out. Although “mogged” can suggest severe fatigue, it does not necessarily imply illness or an unusual condition. Its meaning should be distinguished from “mugged,” which commonly refers to someone being attacked or robbed. In everyday British usage, “mogged” is especially associated with northern English and Scottish English speakers, but it is broadly understood throughout Britain.
adjectiveExhausted or worn out, especially after hard work or prolonged exertion.
- Exhausted or worn out after exertion.
"By the end of the hike, we were completely mogged."
"She was absolutely mogged after working two back-to-back shifts."
"We felt thoroughly mogged by the time we reached the hotel."
One letter separates “mogged” from “mugged,” but in British slang the difference can mean exhaustion instead of a beating.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mogged come from?
“Mogged” is the past-participle and adjectival form of the chiefly British informal verb “mog,” meaning to toil, labor, or become worn out. The verb belongs to informal and dialectal English usage; its ultimate historical origin is uncertain.
Related word forms
How mogged is actually used
This is chiefly British informal English. It is especially associated with Great Britain, including northern English and Scottish speech, and sounds more natural in casual conversation than in formal writing.
Easily confused with mogged
In British slang, “mugged” commonly means attacked or robbed, whereas “mogged” means exhausted or worn out.