frog

noun Etymology: Middle English frogge, from Old English frogga; akin to Old High German frosk frog; senses 2, 3, 5, 7, 8 unclearly derived & perhaps of distinct origin Date: before 12th century 1. any of various largely aquatic leaping anuran amphibians (as ranids) that have slender bodies with smooth moist skin and strong long hind legs with webbed feet — compare toad 2. the triangular elastic horny pad in the middle of the sole of the foot of a horse — see hoof illustration 3. a. a loop attached to a belt to hold a weapon or tool b. an ornamental braiding for fastening the front of a garment that consists of a button and a loop through which it passes 4. often capitalized, usually offensive Frenchman 5. a device permitting the wheels on one rail of a track to cross an intersecting rail 6. a condition in the throat that produces hoarseness <

had a frog in his throat

> 7. the nut of a violin bow 8. a small holder (as of metal, glass, or plastic) with perforations or spikes for holding flowers in place in a bowl or vase