rug

noun

ˈrəg 

1

: lap robe

2

: a piece of thick heavy fabric that usually has a nap or pile and is used as a floor covering

3

: a floor mat of an animal pelt

a bearskin rug

4

slang : toupee sense 1

5

British : a blanket for an animal (such as a horse or dog)

Synonyms

• hairpiece
• toupee
• wig

Examples of rug in a Sentence

I accidentally spilled wine on the rug.

You could tell that he was wearing a rug.

Recent Examples on the Web

The rug is stain-resistant but very easy to spot clean in a pinch. —Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 1 June 2024

The clamor among local automakers to make affordable EVs, while necessary to remain competitive, risks pulling the rug from underneath workers on the continent who have long gotten used to the European industry’s superiority. —Byryan Hogg, Fortune Europe, 30 May 2024

Over two decades, Meta has sometimes pulled the rug out from under coders. —Mike Isaac, New York Times, 29 May 2024

When choosing decor, opt for solid colors and subdued prints over bold, statement-making patterns on rugs, upholstery, and other surfaces. —Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English *rug rag, tuft, probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Norwegian dialect rugga coarse rug, Old Norse rǫgg tuft

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing rug

• cut a rug
• flokati rug
• lie like a rug
• Oriental rug
• prayer rug
• pull the rug from under
• rug rat
• scatter rug
• steamer rug
• sweep (something) under the rug
• throw rug

Kids Definition

rug

noun

ˈrəg 

: a piece of thick heavy fabric usually with a nap or pile used as a floor covering