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Definition of hitch

hitch

/hɪtʃ/
hitch

Plural:hitches
•
Past Simple:hitched
•
Past Participle:hitched
•
Present Participle:hitching
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hitch Lexical Profile

hitch Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A temporary difficulty, snag, or problem.

Example

"The ambitious software launch went off without a single hitch."


2

A type of knot used to tie a rope to a post, ring, or other object.

Example

"The sailor quickly secured the small boat to the wooden dock using a clove hitch."


3

A sudden, jerky movement or pull.

Example

"With a quick hitch of his shoulders, the hiker readjusted the heavy backpack."

Synonyms
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• verb

1

To fasten, tie, or tether, especially temporarily, using a rope, strap, or harness.

Example

"The farmer hitched the horses to the heavy wooden wagon before sunrise."


2

To obtain a free ride in a passing vehicle by standing on the side of the road and gesturing.

Example

"After his car broke down on the deserted highway, he had to hitch a ride to the nearest town."


3

To pull up or move something with a sudden jerk (often used with 'up').

Example

"He hitched up his trousers before stepping cautiously into the shallow stream."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for hitch

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'hicchen' (to move jerkily). The exact origin is uncertain, but it may be related to words denoting a sudden movement or a catch.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hitch. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hitch
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