Embraces where someone holds another person closely with their arms to show affection or comfort.
From Old Norse 'hugga,' meaning 'to comfort' or 'to console.' The word entered Middle English and originally meant 'to console' before narrowing to the physical embrace itself. The exact origin of the Norse root is uncertain but may relate to 'hugr' (mind or spirit).
Studies show that hugs actually release oxytocin, the 'bonding hormone,' which lowers stress and blood pressure—so there's real science behind why hugs feel so good. The word itself traveled from Norse comfort to modern universal symbol of affection.
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