: any of various largely aquatic leaping anuran amphibians (such as ranids) that have slender bodies with smooth moist skin and strong long hind legs with webbed feet compare toad
2
: the triangular elastic horny pad in the middle of the sole of the foot of a horse see hoof illustration
3
a
: a loop attached to a belt to hold a weapon or tool
b
: an ornamental braiding for fastening the front of a garment that consists of a button and a loop through which it passes
4
often capitalizeddisparaging + offensive: frenchman
5
: a device permitting the wheels on one rail of a track to cross an intersecting rail
6
: a condition in the throat that produces hoarseness
had a frog in his throat
7
: the nut of a violin bow
8
: a small holder (as of metal, glass, or plastic) with perforations or spikes for holding flowers in place in a bowl or vase
Word History
Etymology
Middle English frogge, from Old English frogga; akin to Old High German frosk frog; senses 2, 3, 5, 7, 8 unclearly derived & perhaps of distinct origin
First Known Use
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of frog was before the 12th century