pig
The word carries a stark duality between its biological meaning and its social application. In a literal sense, it describes a farm animal, but in a social sense, it serves as a harsh pejorative. This transition from animal to insult relies on the perceived traits of the animal, specifically its appetite and habit of wallowing in filth.
When used as a verb, the term shifts from a description of character to a description of a temporary state of indulgence. While calling someone a pig is a character judgment, saying they are pigging out describes a specific, often guilt-ridden, act of overeating.
Countable when referring to the individual animals on a farm or a greedy person ('He is such a pig'). Uncountable when referring to the meat of the animal, though 'pork' is more common.
💬Casual Conversation
Someone pigged out on all the synth-bacon in the galley.
Someone pigged out on all the synth-bacon in the galley.
Check the logs. I'll deal with whoever did it.
Check the logs. I'll deal with whoever did it.
Meanings
Examples
The pig is pink.
I see a pig.
That pig is big.
The pig ran into the mud.
She fed the pig every morning.
He acted like a pig today.
The students laughed at the pig in the book.
We can pig out on sushi after the flight.
The dragon guarded a golden pig statue.
The historical records mention a sacred pig ritual.
I apologize for being a pig at the banquet.
Some species of pig are highly intelligent animals.
Phrasal Verbs
pig out
to eat a large amount of food in a greedy or excessive manner
After the long hike, we decided to pig out on a giant platter of nachos.