[count] a small piece of meat from the leg of a pig

the part of the rear leg of a four-footed animal (such as a horse) that is like the human ankle - see picture at horse - compare 2hock, 4hock

[noncount] informal

the state of being in the possession of a pawnbroker

An item that is in hock has been exchanged for money in an arrangement with a pawnbroker. If the money is returned, the item will be returned, or else the pawnbroker may sell it to someone else. When the item is returned it is out of hock.

the state of owing money to someone or something :debt

[+ obj] :to give (something that you own) to a pawnbroker in exchange for money :to put (something) in hock

[count, noncount] Brit :a type of German white wine - compare 1hock 2hock