hack

[hæk]

hack Definition

• 1. to cut or chop roughly or irregularly
• 2. to gain unauthorized access to a computer system or network
• 3. to cope with a difficult situation or perform a difficult task

Using hack: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hack" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He hacked the tree trunk with a machete.

• Example

  The company's database was hacked by cybercriminals.

• Example

  She managed to hack her way through the dense jungle.

• Example

  I need to hack this project by tomorrow.

hack Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for hack

• chop
• cut
• access
• breach
• crack
• manage
• cope
• slash
• deal with

Antonyms for hack

• smooth
• refine
• authorize
• permit
• allow

Idioms Using hack

• hack one's way through

  to make progress through something difficult or challenging

  Example

  The hikers had to hack their way through the thick underbrush to reach the summit.

• hack around

  to waste time or engage in unproductive activities

  Example

  We can't just hack around all day, we need to get this project finished.

• hack it

  to be successful or capable in a particular situation

  Example

  I don't know if I can hack it as a professional athlete.

Phrases with hack

• hack job

  a poor or unprofessional piece of work

  Example

  The contractor did a hack job on our kitchen renovation.

• hack off

  to annoy or anger someone

  Example

  His constant complaining really hacks me off.

• hack into

  to gain unauthorized access to a computer system or network

  Example

  The hackers were able to hack into the company's servers and steal sensitive data.

Origins of hack

originally meant 'to cut with heavy blows in an irregular fashion' and later extended to other senses

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Summary: hack in Brief

The verb 'hack' [hæk] has multiple meanings. It can refer to cutting or chopping roughly, gaining unauthorized access to a computer system, or coping with a difficult situation. Examples include 'He hacked the tree trunk with a machete,' 'The company's database was hacked by cybercriminals,' and 'She managed to hack her way through the dense jungle.' Phrases like 'hack job' denote poor work, while idioms like 'hack one's way through' imply overcoming challenges. Informal synonyms include 'chop,' 'crack,' and 'deal with.'