hopping

word · lemma: hop

/ˈhɑpɪŋ/
/hˈɒpɪŋ/

Definition

Moving by jumping on one foot or making short, quick jumps. Often used for people, animals like rabbits, or in playful activities.

Usage & Nuances

Informal, mostly used for children, playful acts, or small animals. Can describe literal jumping ('hopping on one foot'), or figuratively ('bar-hopping' for going from place to place). Not used for large, running jumps; use 'jumping' for bigger motions.

Example Sentences

The rabbit is hopping in the garden.

basic

The child was hopping on one foot.

basic

The frog kept hopping across the pond.

basic

We spent the afternoon hopping from café to café downtown.

natural

After twisting his ankle, he was hopping around the room to avoid putting weight on it.

natural

He came hopping down the stairs, excited to show his new toy.

natural