Pronunciation: [slˈʌɡz] (IPA) 
The word "slugs" is spelled with the letters s, l, u, g, and s. In IPA phonetic transcription, this word is transcribed as /slʌɡz/. The first sound is the "s" sound, followed by the "l" sound. The "u" sound is pronounced as a short "uh" sound, also known as the schwa sound. Next comes the "g" sound, followed by the final "s" sound. Slugs are slimy, shell-less gastropod mollusks that are classified as pests in gardens and farms.
Slugs, often used as a noun, refers to small, slimy gastropods that are part of the mollusk family. They are characterized by their soft, elongated bodies, lack of a visible shell, and the presence of a muscular "foot" they use for movement. Slugs are typically found in damp environments, such as gardens, forests, and other areas with high moisture content. They are most active during the night and prefer cool and humid conditions.
In a broader sense, "slugs" can also refer to a type of ammunition. In this context, a slug is a solid projectile or bullet typically used in shotguns, which lacks the multiple projectiles (pellets) present in conventional shotgun shells. Slugs are commonly used for specialized shooting situations, including hunting large game or self-defense.
In technology and computing, "slug" has yet another meaning. It can describe an intentionally simplified version of a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) or a website address. Slugs are often used in content management systems and blogging platforms, replacing a URL's traditional parameters with a readable and user-friendly text string that helps improve search engine optimization and enhance user experience.
Overall, "slugs" can describe small, slimy gastropods, specialized ammunition for shotguns, or simplified URLs in the realms of biology, weaponry, and technology, respectively.
Half-roasted ore.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "slugs" has multiple etymological origins, depending on its context. Here are a few possibilities:
1. As a noun meaning "mollusks": The word "slug" comes from Old English "slugge", which is believed to be derived from Proto-Germanic "sluggiz". It can be related to the Dutch "slok" and German "schleim" meaning "slime" or "mucus". This could be a reference to the slimy appearance and texture of these mollusks.
2. As a verb meaning "to hit with force": The verb form of "slugs" is derived from the noun "slug" meaning "a heavy blow". This noun first appeared in the late 17th century, possibly influenced by the sense of "a slow or lazy person" which dates back to the 16th century.
