Definition

1. Noun:
   • Large, strong hands: "Hooks" can refer to large, powerful hands, especially those of a fighter or someone with a strong grip. This usage often implies the hands are used for grabbing or holding forcefully.

Usage

• The word "hooks" in this sense is informal and often used in a figurative or threatening context to emphasize physical strength or the intent to seize something or someone.
• It is typically used in the plural form ("hooks") and not as a singular ("hook") when referring to hands in this manner.

Examples

• (This refers to the boxer's hands being prepared, emphasizing their role as tools for fighting.)
• (This is a figurative, threatening statement meaning "Wait until I can grab/seize him with my strong hands.")

Advanced Usage

• "To get one's hooks into/on someone/something": This is an idiomatic expression meaning to gain control over someone or something, often in a possessive, manipulative, or predatory way. It extends from the literal idea of grabbing with hooks.
  • That company is trying to get its hooks into the new market.
  • She finally got her hooks on that rare book she wanted.

Variants and Related Words

• Hook (noun): A curved piece of metal or other material for catching, holding, or pulling things. This is the standard, more common meaning.
  • He hung his coat on the hook.
• Hook (verb): To catch, attach, or secure with a hook.
  • He managed to hook a large fish.

Synonyms

• Fists: (when referring to clenched hands for hitting).
• Paws: (informal, sometimes humorous for large hands).
• Grasp: (the act of holding, can be used figuratively like "get into one's grasp").

Related Phrases/Idioms

• By hook or by crook: By any means necessary, fair or unfair.
  • He was determined to win the contract by hook or by crook.
• Hook, line, and sinker: Completely, without reservation (often used for believing a lie).
  • He fell for the story hook, line, and sinker.
• Off the hook: Freed from an obligation or difficulty.
  • The evidence let him off the hook for the crime.

Note: The primary definition provided for "hooks" as "large strong hand (as of a fighter)" is a specific, informal usage. The more frequent and general meanings are related to the singular form "hook" as a curved implement for catching or hanging.

Noun

1. large strong hand (as of a fighter)
   • wait till I get my hooks on him