Why is mug slang for face. A “painted mug” is a face with a lot of makeup - usually a positive comment. Feb 5, 2025 · The meaning of "mean-mugging" slang, why teens use it, and how parents can navigate new expressions in a fun, easy-to-understand guide. This noun occurs, for example, in Belligerence and hostility: Trump’s mugshot defines modern US politics, by Chris McGreal, published in The Guardian (London and Manchester, England) of Friday 25th August 2023: Mugshots define eras. But, why are faces called “mugs”? Most details point to an 18th-century form of British drinking cups called “Toby jugs”. ” OED lists both mug (the act of mugging someone) and mug (a fool or simpleton) to likely be from mug, 'a face, esp an unattractive one', which in turn is likely derived from the common 18th c. Jan 21, 2024 · ‘Mug’ is one example of how language adapts and evolves with time. ” So, if someone has an unattractive or unappealing face or facial expression, they may be described as having a “mug. Reply reply Clari24 • "Mug" is a slang term for face. " What does mean-mugging look like? A mean-mugging face typically includes a frown or snarl, furrowed eyebrows, and a stern look in the eyes. The term "Mug" is a derogatory slang term used to describe someone who is gullible or easily fooled. Navigate the myriad of British slang terms and idioms that offer a unique window into UK culture. In the 17th and 18th centuries, mugs were often decorated with cartoonishly-drawn human faces. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. And it isn't clear where that came from, but it is suggested that it originated with drinking mugs shaped like grotesque faces, which became popular in England in the 1600s. The expression “Stank face” is the most prevalent in the Southern music scene of the United States, where it appears in rap and jazz events equally. transitive verb Mean Mug is a slang term that refers to the act of giving someone a dirty or hostile look. Jan 24, 2024 · 1What does a mug mean in slang? 2What is a mug in British slang? 3What is a person’s mug? 4Why is mug slang for face? 5What does mugged off mean in England? 6What does crack on mean in UK? 7What does cheeky mean in British slang? Dec 16, 2023 · Why Is It Called A Mug Shot? Dive into the fascinating origins of the term "mug shot" with our latest video! Discover how a simple slang term for "face" evolved into a critical tool for law A mug shot or mugshot (an informal term for police photograph or booking photograph) is a photographic portrait of a person from the shoulders up, typically taken after a person is placed under arrest. Is mug slang for face? Informally, a mug is a face: that’s why a mug shot of a prisoner is a picture of his face right after he has been arrested. As stated in the previous comment, mugging originally meant to attack one's face (or one's mug). This one is used and understood throughout most of Britain. an exaggerated facial expression; grimace, as in acting. It refers to a deep drinking utensil with a handle, most commonly used for hot drinks but also sometimes used for alcoholic beverages. Nowadays "mug" can simply mean face, for example: - The football hit me right in my mug!This then explains the term "mug-shot", a noun meaning a photograph of a person's face Besides, “mug” in British slang can also be used to refer to a face or a person’s expression. | Brian Seed/GettyImages The faces on these mugs were often exaggerated, which could explain why the term mug is frequently used to describe an unattractive face, a comical expression, or even a foolish person. Visage: A fancy term "Like a Mug" is a slang term that has been used for decades to describe someone who is gullible, naive, or easily fooled. What’s a dry lunch in Cockney slang Feb 27, 2012 · I would agree with Loob; 'mug' is probably now obsolete as a slang term for 'face', and even when it was current it had a negative connotation, and the normal usage would have been more like 'ugly mug'. Why is mug slang for face? It most likely derives from “mugg,” a Scandinavian word for a drinking vessel. It is often used to describe someone’s demeanor, particularly when they are expressing a specific emotion or attitude. When someone is mean mugging, they are often trying to intimidate or threaten the person they are Jun 28, 2014 · Students are very hard working in Singapore, and the phrase that is used for this diligent cramming of knowledge? Well, it’s to mug! Singapore has incorporated some British slang from the colonial era into their everyday speech and as such the definition of the word ‘mug’ has remained the same ever since the British left. When it’s a verb, mug means “rob someone while threatening violence. These photos are called “mug shots,” a term that arises from the slang use of ‘mug’ to mean ‘face. Jul 7, 2020 · Bob the Drag Queen stops by Vanity Fair's Slang School and teaches us Drag slang. He’s a gullible mug – he believed her again. An example of mug is to steal a person’s wallet. Sep 19, 2023 · The term originated in the late 2000s and comes from the slang term “mug,” which means “face. Face. mug {n. “I drank from the mug. verb. <br /><br />- Every morning I drink a big mug of earl grey tea-<br /><br />It can also be used as the quantity that can be held in a mug, for example:<br /><br Jan 21, 2024 · What is the Definition of ‘Mug’? First and foremost, let’s clarify what ‘mug’ means in everyday language. If you're caught breaking the law, you’ll probably end up at the police station where officers will take a picture of your face. We see its development in this Indiana newspaper article from 20 December 1911. Idiot Mug is also commonly used as slang for "idiot" or "fool. )|@Juneheavens that’s correct! and you’re welcome mug up [phrasal verb] mug up or mug (something) up or mug up (something) or mug up on (something) British, informal : to study or try to learn a lot of information quickly for a test, exam, etc. In its most literal sense, a mug is a type of cylindrical cup that is used for drinking beverages, typically coffee or tea. Slang Terms the face. 2Formality: Face is a more formal word than mug, which is often used in slang or informal language. (UK, Australia, slang) A stupid or contemptible person. Mean mugging is a term used to describe a facial expression that conveys anger, hostility, or disapproval. Kisser: Mouth and surrounding area. [1][2] The primary purpose of the mug shot is to allow law enforcement to have a photographic record of an arrested individual to allow for Dec 2, 2021 · There is no clear origin for the term but it comes from the "mug" slang term for "face. ) To mug- To rob someone. Although a bit archaic, "mug" is still used to describe a less-than-beautiful face. - Every morning I drink a big mug of earl grey tea- It can also be used as the quantity that can be held in a mug, for example: - Oh no I just knocked over a mugful of tea Mug, in reference to the face, is believed to be based off of grotesque faces drawn on mugs. Mar 31, 2021 · お酒への愛とイギリスの 18 世紀のトビー ジャグが、「顔」を意味するスラングの言葉にどのような影響を与えたの May 2, 2022 · Our slang word of the week is mug spelt M-U-G. 1), on notion of drinking mugs shaped like grotesque faces. } 1. com/Why-are-faces-called-mugsFrom the Oxford English Dictionary , mug became slang for face "perhaps in allusion Jul 29, 2025 · Learn what is a mug British slang, its origin, usage, and funniest examples online. See examples of MUG used in a sentence. Slang Words for Face Mug: The front of one’s head. Why is mug an insult? If you say that someone is a mug, you mean that they are stupid and easily deceived by other people. A gullible or easily swindled person. S. Nov 7, 2018 · Mean, here, is “hostile” or “nasty,” and mug is slang for “face. Sep 10, 2020 · A mug- A type of cup or someone’s face (if referred to as someone’s face, it is slang. slang, designates a photograph of a person’s face, especially in police or other official records. The origins of Aug 15, 2018 · "And so because of those mugs with funny faces on them, that got transferred over for a slang term for a person’s face," said Zimmer. ” What does Face Mean? The face is the front part of a person’s head, typically extending from the forehead to the chin, and including the eyes, nose, and mouth. This may have led to the use of "mug" as a synonym for an ugly face. A mug (slang, often derogatory) The face. Origins of the Term The origins of the slang term Apr 1, 2021 · You know the drill: when you break the law, they haul you downtown & take a few pics of your face at the police station. 2) "a person's face," 1708, possibly from mug (n. How do you say crazy in Jul 7, 2022 · Does mug mean face? Mug is a funny word that could represent a cup, your face, or even what you do when you rob someone. Jan 21, 2024 · Contrary to its literal meaning as a drinking vessel, ‘mug’ is slang for a person’s face. <br /><br />Now our first and formal meaning of mug is a noun meaning a vessel for hot drinks. That came from "mug" as a noun meaning face. Mug shot arose in American police jargon in the first half of the twentieth century. Parents have become experts at this look, along with school teachers and bosses in every institution. ” (I was robbed. (slang, vulgar) A gullible or easily-cheated person. The term is often used as a means of insulting someone's appearance, particularly if they do not conform to societal beauty standards. However, when used as a slang term, ‘mug’ takes on an entirely different meaning. a drinking cup, usually cylindrical in shape, having a handle, and often of a heavy substance, as earthenware. Jun 7, 2025 · Learn the true meaning of mug slang with our lively mug urban dictionary guide! Origins, usage, and hilarious examples included. Definition of mug noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. " Also "Mug shot" is a photo of the face. , mugged, mug•ging. Jul 25, 2025 · mug (plural mugs) A large cup for beverages, usually having a handle and used without a saucer. 1Usage: Face is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while mug is more limited in its usage. An example of mug is for a little boy to make a scary face while his mom is taking his picture. a drinking vessel with a handle, usually cylindrical and made of earthenware 2. Listen along with enhanced, synced transcriptions and more. Jun 23, 2025 · Unlock the meaning of mug meaning UK slang! Learn its origin, how to use it, plus hilarious examples and memes in this upbeat slang guide. From popular phrases to unique expressions, we’ve compiled a list of the top slang words for face that will have you laughing, nodding in agreement, and maybe even learning a thing or two. Click for more definitions. with the . The term originated in African American slang and has been used in hip-hop culture since the 1980s. Jul 7, 2022 · Mug is a funny word that could represent a cup, your face, or even what you do when you rob someone. … Informally, a mug is a face: that’s why a mug shot of a prisoner is a picture of his face right after he has been arrested. May 2, 2022 · Our slang word of the week is mug spelt M-U-G. It's typically used in situations where one person wants to intimidate or threaten another, either verbally or physically. Nowadays "mug" can simply mean face, for example: - The football hit me right in my mug! This then explains the term "mug-shot", a noun meaning a photograph of a person's face made for an official purpose, especially police records. This may have led to the use of “mug” as a synonym for an ugly face. It is a combination of the words "mug" and "ugly", with "mug" referring to one's face or facial features. Over time, this evolved into slang for someone who is easily fooled or someone who displays a foolish or naive demeanor. n. Jun 23, 2025 · Discover the true mug meaning slang with our fun, easy guide. ” It’s more of a derogatory term, as it usually refers to an unattractive or unpleasant face. It is often used to insult someone's intelligence or to imply that they are naive and easily taken advantage of. "Appearance" can be more general, but sounds like it would work for the example you gave. Synonyms: face, features, countenance [literary], visage [formal] More Synonyms of mug 4. It serves as the primary means for visual identification and emotional expression. And from this sense of mug meaning face we get mug shot, the photograph of a person who has been arrested. to assault or menace, esp. a thug, ruffian, or other criminal. quora. practice of grotesque human faces being depicted on drinking mugs. What is the point of mug being an insult? mug {n. So, you wouldn’t really call a beautiful or pleasant face a mug. Why is mug slang for face? It most likely derives from “mugg,” a Scandinavian word Nov 16, 2022 · (Noun pl). We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Aug 7, 2024 · In slang, 'mug' refers to someone who is easily deceived or foolish. 3Connotation: Face is neutral in connotation, while mug can have negative connotations when used to describe a person's face. This lead to the sarcastic/negative connotation with this, probably influencing the popularity of calling a criminal's photo a mugshot. . ” (I drank from the cup) “He had such a pretty mug!” (He had a very pretty face) “I was mugged. Jan 28, 2024 · The most common British slang for face is “mug”. However, it is essential to note that the meaning of slang terms can vary from region to region, so context is crucial. Synonyms face: mush, dial, phiz gullible person: See dupe Derived words & phrases Translations See also Descendants Verb Jan 4, 2023 · Stank face also known as either mean face, mean mug or ill grill refers to scowling and frowning while listening to or performing music that is especially funky or groovy. Learn origins, usage tips, and hilarious examples to sound like a pro online. Mugger comes from the verb mug, or “beat up,” which originally meant “punch in the face,” from the nickname mug, or “face. ” Mug in this sense can be traced back to the 18th century and may, fun fact, come from drinking mugs painted with or shaped like grotesque faces. ” It is used to describe stealing from someone, referring to someone who is foolish or gullible, or as a negative or insulting term for face. ” Where did this term come from, and why is a mug called a mug? The word “mug” originated from Scandinavian and German words that were incorporated into English. “Mug” is an old slang term from the 1700s that means “face. May 2, 2022 · This then explains the term "mug-shot", a noun meaning a photograph of a person's face made for an official purpose, especially police records. " For example: There was another MUGGING in the neighborhood last night. A mug shot is a photograph taken of a criminal’s face. It is often used in a derogatory manner to insult someone's intelligence or lack thereof. ” This meaning came from an earlier definition, “to strike someone in the face (or the mug). ” Oct 4, 2023 · Your face is the window to your personality, and it’s no surprise that slang words for face have emerged to describe its various features and expressions. Aug 26, 2023 · A man with a temple-mug would have the countenance expected of a lawyer. Categories: add yours British noun slang Source: British slang (Wikipedia) Subscribe to: British Slang Slang English Slang Discuss Sep 27, 2024 · gigglemug (plural gigglemugs) (dated, rare, slang) A smiling face quotations Aug 9, 2023 · The British Isles have a rich linguistic history with colloquial expressions like 'bloke', 'cheeky', 'mate', and 'blimey'. Mug tends to be reserved for a stank face, if you will. an old-fashioned way of referring to a face, "He had a particularly ugly mug. Unveiling the Slang Meaning of ‘Mug’ When someone refers to Oct 18, 2017 · (slang) The face, often used deprecatingly. ” “Mean” is an adjective that describes someone who’s unkind, rude, or bad-tempered. [2] X Research source In the 1700s, it was a popular trend to draw or Sep 20, 2023 · The slang word “mug” has multiple meanings, including “rob,” “idiot,” and “face. May 2, 2022 · So people began to refer to the faces of those who were not especially attractive as ‘mugs’ highlighting their unattractive features that resembled the drinking vessel. 8 meanings: 1. This is what the “mug” in “mug shot” means — it’s a portrait or a photograph of a face, a sense that etymonline pegs to the 1800s. This is a tricky word due to its vast range of meanings within both slang and formal English. Bugsy Siegel The Quick Answer MUG means "Rob," "Idiot," and "Face. t. From classic slang to meme culture, master this tricky term and solve puzzles like a pro. Nov 16, 2024 · Discover the slang meaning of "mug" beyond the coffee cup. the quantity it holds. The term "mug" itself has been used as a synonym for "fool" since the 18th century, and "like a mug" became a popular way to describe someone who was acting foolishly. British Terms a gullible person; dupe; fool. " Rob Mug is widely used to mean "to rob someone. synonyms quotations Synonyms: mush, dial, phiz Listen to Mug - What does &quot;Mug&quot; mean in British Slang? by The Slang Podcast - Learn British English Now on Musixmatch Podcasts. Apr 30, 2025 · Mean mugging is a combination of the terms “mean” and “mug. Physiog: Short for physiognomy, or face. Jan 8, 2024 · The faces were somewhat caricaturish, which may explain why the word mug is often used to describe an unattractive face, a funny facial expression, or even a foolish person. The origins of the term are unclear, but it has been in use for many years and is still commonly used today. These connotations of crime lead us to our next use of mug, this time a verb meaning to be robbed at gunpoint or with the threat of violence. "Mug," of course, is a slang term for "face," and so I surmise that "mug sh Sep 20, 2022 · Why is it called a mugger? A mugger might brandish a weapon or merely threaten harm, and he usually steals money, jewelry, cell phones, or other valuables. ” Finding a picture of said grotesque human face mugs is left as an exercise for the reader. Mildly vulgar slang for breasts. Given that origin, you can see why calling a face a mug today still has a slightly negative tinge to it. If someone is “mean mugging” it means they’re staring at you in an aggressive/angry manner. ’ Jul 20, 2025 · Originally, "mug" was used to describe a person's face or head, often in a humorous or mocking way. May 29, 2013 · In the 17th and 18th centuries, mugs were often decorated with cartoonishly-drawn human faces. Sense of "portrait or photograph in police records (as in mug shot, 1950) had emerged by 1887. Categories: add yours British noun slang Source: British slang (Wikipedia) Subscribe to: British Slang Slang English Slang Discuss Sep 27, 2024 · gigglemug (plural gigglemugs) (dated, rare, slang) A smiling face quotations Jul 7, 2020 · Bob the Drag Queen stops by Vanity Fair's Slang School and teaches us Drag slang. Also called: mugful the quantity. Another common but less widely used term is Mug/mugger Origin and History - Mug is an old word of Scandinavian origin for an earthenware container and as a drinking vessel dates from the 1600s. From its original meaning of a drinking vessel, ‘mug’ has taken on a slang connotation referring to a person’s face, often in a derogatory or playful manner. Mug definition: a drinking cup, usually cylindrical in shape, having a handle, and often of a heavy substance, as earthenware. Winston Churchill Toby mug. This usage derives from the Anglo-Saxon word “mugga,” which means “face. Now our first and formal meaning of mug is a noun meaning a vessel for hot drinks. Jan 21, 2024 · Defining Mug in Slang In slang, the term “mug” refers to a person’s face or facial expression. ” Is Mean mugging offensive? May 13, 2025 · Explore 9 hilarious meanings of "face" in slang crossword clues. From "no tea, no shade" to "serving face," Bob takes you "purse first" through drag lingo. Alternatively, the phrase may also refer to someone, who had consumed That said, the only times I have seen mug used in a different way than to simply mean a coffee mug are: 1. It typically involves a person staring at someone else with a scowl or frown on their face. Mug, colloquially meaning ‘a foolish or stupid person,’ dates back to the mid-19th century, and originated in thieves’ slang. " For example: He's a total MUG for paying that much for that pile of junk! Face Especially in the UK, mug is used as slang for "face," particularly in a Nov 16, 2022 · Is mug slang for face? Informally, a mug is a face: that’s why a mug shot of a prisoner is a picture of his face right after he has been arrested. Dec 16, 2023 · Why Is It Called A Mug Shot? Dive into the fascinating origins of the term "mug shot" with our latest video! Discover how a simple slang term for "face" evolved into a critical tool for law We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. We call those photos “mug shots”, since the word “mug” is slang for face. mug (mug), n. “Getting mugged” appears to have begun an extension of this sense, “hitting someone in the mug (face)” then shifting to mean “beat up” generally and later “assault with intent to rob”. v. the mouth. ” Mean mugging can be intentional or unconscious, and it is often used by parents, teachers, and bosses to express their disapproval or disappointment. Jan 24, 2024 · What does a mug mean in slang? If you say that someone is a mug, you mean that they are stupid and easily deceived by other people . Explore its origins, usage in culture, and statistics highlighting its relevance in modern vocabulary. Mug is a funny word that could represent a cup, your face, or even what you do when you rob someone. Reply reply KevDevX • Visage :) Reply reply DerekFlint420 • Countenance, features Reply reply N3ir0 • I mean yea, but more about the face, their skin, their appearance of the face; I can’t remember the word 😭 and searching synonymous did not work lol Reply reply Aug 25, 2022 · What does mug mean in the hood? Mug is defined as to attack someone, particularly to rob him or her, or is slang for making faces in front of the camera. It’s important to be aware of the impact our words can have and use such terms responsibly. And, if you mug someone for their mug, you may end up getting a mug shot taken of your guilty face. A mug is a face informally, which is why a prisoner’s mug shot is a photograph of his face after he has been arrested. What an ugly mug. transitive verb The slang term "Mugly" is a derogatory term used to describe an unattractive person, typically a woman. Take, for instance, the word “mug. Given that mug shots rarely capture anyone looking their best, the usage of the term feels particularly This is what the “mug” in “mug shot” means — it’s a portrait or a photograph of a face, a sense that etymonline pegs to the 1800s. Mug has been slang for face since the earl 2Why are faces called mugs? - Quorahttps://www. Now our first and formal meaning of mug is a noun meaning – Listen to Mug - What does "Mug" mean in British Slang? by The Slang Podcast - Learn British English Now instantly on your tablet, phone or browser - no downloads needed. , v. Feb 26, 2025 · The expression mug shot comes from this sense, and has been used since the 1950s. Aug 29, 2023 · The noun mugshot, which originated in U. Mug shots: photographs of an accused taken at the time of his arrest, usually both face on and in profile. Why is mug slang for face? From the Oxford English Dictionary , mug became slang for face “ perhaps in allusion to the drinking mugs made to represent a grotesque human face which were common in the 18th cent. Your “mug” is your face. Master this cheeky term to boost your UK slang game! May 2, 2022 · What do you drink from a mug? Have you ever been mugged or worse mugged off? Discover the meaning of “mug” in British Slang. Learn its origin, usage, related terms, examples, and synonyms in this insightful article. I think I have finally answered the niggling question of the origin of the term. mug (n. in acting "mugging" which means an actor is affecting or portraying emotion for effect, rather than actually feeling it. 2. It refers to someone’s facial expression or how they present themselves visually. xbgfn fbsnf gbkmgi jkvmk wheabwy vgqizfe qwif wyify ulyaf vofijme