grab hag

English

Alternative forms

• grab-hag
  This English term is a hot word. Its inclusion on Wiktionary is provisional.

Etymology

From grab +‎ hag. Originally applied to older women who engaged in the practice, but now can be applied to individuals of any age or gender.

Noun

grab hag (plural grab hags)

1. (slang, derogatory) One who takes excessively or takes all that is available, without regard for the needs or considerations of others.
   • 2022 November 8, China Fact Chasers, “The Evil Grab Hags of China!”, in YouTube‎^[1]:

     There’s a certain type of auntie in China, OK? We call them grab hags. […] There’s a specific demographic of these grab hags, we call them, which are, like, the most infuriating people you’ll ever meet. […] They’re basically like these vile creatures that will take anything they can. If they see an opportunity to take something for free, they do.

Derived terms

• grab-hag (verb)

Related terms

• grab-haggery