Peglike

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Shaped like a short, thick pin or dowel used to fasten or hold something in place
2. Having the form of a small wooden or metal pin, often rounded and tapered at one end
3. Resembling a little rod or stud, such as those used to secure fabric or join pieces together

Etymology: "Peglike" is a plain compound: "peg," a short pin or stake used for fastening, joined to the suffix "-like," meaning "resembling or having the form of." The result describes something shaped like a peg, or working in the manner of one. Because "-like" attaches freely to almost any noun in English, the word needs no special history. Its meaning follows directly from its two parts, so there is no surprising shift to report.