hogshead

noun

hogs·​head ˈhȯgz-ˌhed How to pronounce hogshead (audio)
ˈhägz-
Synonyms of hogsheadnext
1
: a large cask or barrel
2
: any of various units of capacity
especially : a U.S. unit equal to 63 gallons (238 liters)

Synonyms of hogshead

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Examples of hogshead in a Sentence

the ship's hold carried 164 hogsheads of molasses
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The 50-year-old was assembled from four hogsheads selected by master of whisky creation Sarah Burgess. — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 17 June 2026 The whiskey was initially aged in American oak hogsheads and then married in European oak puncheons. — David Thomas Tao, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for hogshead

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hogshead was in the 14th century

Rhymes for hogshead

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Browse Nearby Words

hog scraper
hogshead
hog sheer
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Cite this Entry

“Hogshead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hogshead. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

hogshead

noun
hogs·​head ˈhȯgz-ˌhed How to pronounce hogshead (audio)
ˈhägz-
1
: a large cask or barrel
2
: any of various units of capacity
especially : a U.S. unit for liquids equal to 63 gallons (about 238 liters)

More from Merriam-Webster on hogshead

Nglish: Translation of hogshead for Spanish Speakers

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