Word Smith: Hike

Cottonwood Gulch Sunrise Hike, New Mexico

Word Smith: Hike

What it is?

According to Wikipedia: A HIKE or hiking is the preferred term, in Canada and the United States, for a long, vigorous walk, usually on trails, in the countryside. The word WALK or walking is used for shorter distances, particularly urban walks.

As J.R.R. Tolkien said, “It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.” From The Lord of the Rings.

The word has some very different meanings, depending on whether it is a verb or a noun.

as a Noun

1. A hike refers to a long walk, especially in the country or wilderness. A hiker sometimes uses a walking stick to help with balance and stable stepping in rough terrain.

2. Means a sharp increase, especially in price. As in, “Macy’s implemented a price hike.”

3. Take a hike. Many times the expression is used with a sharp biting tone, which translates as “Get out of here.” Or, “Get lost.” Or simply, “Take a hike, and don’t come back anytime soon.”

Hike

as a Verb

1. To walk for a long distance, especially across country or in the woods. As in, “We planned to hike another mile up a steep trail.”

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Synonyms:  Some synonyms include walk, go on foot, trek, tramp, trudge, traipse, slog, footslog, plod, march

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Sagging pants by Gabriel Peregrino [1]

2. Pull or lift up (something, especially clothing). Such as, “He hiked up his sweatpants and marched to the door.”

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Synonyms:  hitch up, pull up, jerk up, lift, raise, hoist; informal yank up. “Roy hiked up his trousers to reveal his socks”

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Hut, Hut, Hike

3. Pass a football between the legs of the center to the quarterback or other players in American football.

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Synonyms: snap, snapback, pass from center. “The Raven’s long snapper hiked a perfect spiral to the kicker, who punted the ball into the end zone.”

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What is your favorite hike?

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[1] Ironically, Peregrino is the Spanish name for those who are walking, or hiking, on the Camino to Santiago.