plug

I. noun Etymology: Dutch, from Middle Dutch plugge; akin to Middle High German pfloc plug Date: 1606 1. a. a piece used to fill a hole ; stopper b. an obtruding or obstructing mass of material resembling a stopper 2. a flat compressed cake of tobacco 3. a small core or segment removed from a larger object 4. something inferior; especially an inferior often aged or unsound horse 5. a. hydrant, fireplug b. spark plug 6. an artificial fishing lure used primarily for casting and made with one or more sets of gang hooks 7. any of various devices resembling or functioning like a plug: as a. a male fitting for making an electrical connection to a live circuit by insertion in a receptacle (as an outlet) b. a device for connecting electric wires to a jack 8. a piece of favorable publicity or a favorable mention usually incorporated in general matter II. verb (plugged; plugging) Date: 1630 transitive verb 1. a. to stop, make tight, or secure by inserting a plug b. to remedy (a deficiency) as if by inserting a plug <

trying to plug the gaps in their understanding

> 2. to hit with a bullet ; shoot 3. to advertise or publicize insistently intransitive verb 1. to become plugged — usually used with up 2. to work doggedly and persistently <

plugged away at her homework

> 3. to fire shots • plugger noun