piggy
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /pˈɪɡi/
US
- /ˈpɪɡi/
Description
- Little pig
- Childlike name for a pig
- Playful name for someone messy or greedy
- Loving nickname for a child
- Coin bank shaped like a pig
The word "piggy" usually means a little pig, especially in a cute, friendly, or childlike way. People often use it when talking to children, telling stories, or saying nursery rhymes like "This Little Piggy." It can also be used for things linked to pigs in a playful way, such as a piggy bank.
Sometimes "piggy" is used for a person, usually in a teasing way. It may suggest that someone is eating too much, making a mess, or acting a bit greedy. For example, a parent might laugh and call a messy toddler "my little piggy" after dinner. Because of that, the word can sound sweet and playful in one moment, but mildly rude in another.
The word "piggy" is the cute, informal form of "pig." It usually brings to mind a small pig or piglet, especially in speech meant for children or in a warm, playful story. The word often feels softer and more charming than the plain word "pig," which is why it appears so often in children's language, songs, and family talk.
When people use "piggy" about a person, they are usually teasing. It can suggest that someone is messy, eats a lot, or is being a little greedy. A child with food all over their face might be called "a little piggy" with a smile. In another setting, though, saying this to an adult could sound insulting, so the tone and relationship matter.
"Piggy" also lives inside a few common expressions and objects. A piggy bank is a container, often shaped like a pig, that children use to save coins. The nursery rhyme "This Little Piggy" is another very familiar example. In these cases, the word keeps its cute, child-friendly feeling.
Overall, "piggy" is mostly a playful word. It can name a little pig, add warmth to a story, describe a child in an affectionate way, or gently tease someone for being messy or greedy. It is simple, vivid, and strongly tied to childhood speech and everyday family language.
Examples
- 1
Child talk
The toddler pointed at the picture and said, "Piggy!"
- 2
Saving money
She dropped her coins into her piggy bank every Friday.
Phrase
piggy bank
a small container for saving coins
- 3
Appearance
The cartoon had a round pink nose and little piggy eyes.
Pattern
piggy + eyes/nose
eyes or a nose that remind people of a pig
- 4
Greedy behavior
Don't be piggy with the cookies; leave some for your brother.
Usage
piggy
informal and a little childish for greedy
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- piggynounadjective
Forms
- piggiespluralnounadjective
- piggiercomparativeadjectivenoun
- piggiestsuperlativeadjectivenoun