What does pegged mean?
'Pegged' is the past tense and past participle of 'peg' and can also function as an adjective. In its literal sense, it describes something fastened with a peg, as when a climber pegs a rope into the ground or a tent is pegged securely in place. It can also mean fixed or restricted at a particular level, particularly in expressions involving prices, wages, or limits. In informal American English, 'pegged out' means exhausted, as though one has been completely worn out by physical or mental strain. The word is useful because it conveys both physical fastening and the broader idea of securing something in a fixed position.
Fastened or secured with a peg, or fixed at a particular level.
"They pegged the tent stakes deeper into the soil."
This is the standard past tense and past participle of 'peg'.
Fastened with a peg, fixed at a specified level, or informally exhausted.
"The tent remained pegged despite the strong wind."
The informal sense 'pegged out' is more common in American English.
From tent pegs to fixed prices, 'pegged' captures the idea of making something stay securely in place.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pegged come from?
The form 'pegged' derives from the Middle English word 'pegge'. The deeper origin of 'peg' is uncertain, though it is generally associated with an Old Germanic root. The standard verb forms 'peg', 'pegs', and 'pegging' developed regularly from the same base.
Related word forms
How pegged is actually used
The informal expression 'pegged out' is especially common in American English and means exhausted or unable to continue. As an adjective, 'pegged' is normally used in fixed expressions such as 'pegged down' or 'pegged at' rather than as a standalone description.
Easily confused with pegged
'Pegged' means fastened or secured with a peg, whereas 'pecked' means struck or lightly tapped with a beak or pointed object.