Where Does the Word Mugging Come from?

According to etymonline, it possibly comes from a mid 19th century thief slang word, "mug", meaning "fool" or "sucker" and is first attested in the meaning "to attack and rob (someone)" in 1864.

What does mugging mean in slang?

Mugging, a slang term for overacting. Mugging, a type of street robbery.

What does mugging mean in British?

British slang. a gullible person, esp one who is swindled easily.