• HUGGER-MUGGER (noun) The noun HUGGER-MUGGER has 1 sense: 1. a state of confusion; ritual accompanied by complicated and purposeless activity that obscures and confuses. Familiarity information: HUGGER-MUGGER used as a noun is very rare. • HUGGER-MUGGER (adjective) The adjective HUGGER-MUGGER has 2 senses: 1. in utter disorder 2. conducted with or marked by hidden aims or methods Familiarity information: HUGGER-MUGGER used as an adjective is rare. • HUGGER-MUGGER (adverb) The adverb HUGGER-MUGGER has 1 sense: 1. in secrecy Familiarity information: HUGGER-MUGGER used as an adverb is very rare.