A connection between devices or systems, or a casual romantic or physical encounter with someone.
Compound word combining 'hook' and 'up,' both from Old English origins. 'Hook' comes from Germanic roots referring to a curved catching tool, while 'up' is a basic directional word. The phrase became common in the 20th century for both technical connections and slang.
The word jumped from meaning a physical connection between radio equipment in the 1920s to modern slang for casual relationships—technology and dating culture shaped this word's journey!
Modern 'hookup' (casual sexual encounter) emerged in late 20th century; gendered disparities in social judgment for same behavior persist—women labeled differently than men.
Use neutrally when describing relationship patterns; acknowledge unequal social judgment if discussing double standards.
["casual encounter","brief connection"]
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