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Howl - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A howl is a prolonged, mournful cry, often made by animals like wolves or dogs. It can also describe a loud, wailing sound made by wind or people in distress.

howl

/haʊl/ /haʊl/

Definition:

A loud, prolonged cry, especially by a dog, wolf, or person in pain or distress.

Synonyms:

wail, yell, shriek, scream

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

whisper, murmur

Common Collocations:

howl in pain, howl of laughter, howl at the moon

Derivatives:

howler, howling

Usage Tips:

Use "howl" for loud animal cries or exaggerated human sounds; avoid for quiet noises.

Common Phrases:

howl down, howl with laughter, the wind howls

Etymology:

Originates from Old English *hūlian*, meaning to cry out or lament loudly.

Examples:

  • 1. The wolf began to howl at midnight.
  • 2. She let out a howl when she stubbed her toe.
  • 3. The wind made the trees howl eerily.
  • 4. They could hear dogs howling in the distance.

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