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piggy

C2
adjectivenoun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /pˈɪɡi/

US

  • /ˈpɪɡi/

Description

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.

Examples

  1. 1

    Child talk

    The toddler pointed at the picture and said, "Piggy!"

  2. 2

    Saving money

    She dropped her coins into her piggy bank every Friday.

    • Phrase

      piggy bank

      a small container for saving coins

  3. 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. 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