Hag
/hæɡ/noun
A hag is a witch or an old woman, often depicted as malevolent or magical.
Did you know?The term 'Hag' is linked to the Old English word 'hagge', which referred to a witch believed to ride on people's chests while they slept, causing nightmares.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
Old English
hagge
“A witch or female spirit, often associated with dark magic and malevolence.”
14th Century
Middle English
hagge
“Continued to denote a witch, with a strong association to night and nightmares.”
16th Century
English
hag
“Became synonymous with an ugly old woman, especially one practicing witchcraft.”
Modern English
English
hag
“Retains its meaning of a witch, but often carries connotations of evil or sinister intent.”