# hitching

/ˈhɪtʃɪŋ/ (US) · /hˈɪtʃɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hitching
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

to attach one thing to another so they stay connected, like a trailer to a car. You also use it for getting a free ride from passing drivers.

For teachers: to fasten or connect one thing to another, especially for towing or pulling. Extends to obtaining free transport by signalling to passing drivers.

## Examples

- They are hitching the trailer to the car.
- He is standing by the road, hitching a ride to the next town because he missed the bus.
- After hitching the horses to the wagon, the farmers set out before dawn to carry their harvest to market.

## Synonyms

attach, connect, fasten, Hook, hitchhike

## Antonyms

detach, disconnect, unhitch, unhook

## Usage notes

- Often followed by 'to' for the attachment point and 'a ride' for free travel.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.