hoarse
UK: hɔːs | US: hɔːrs
adj. (of a voice) sounding rough and harsh, typically due to illness or overuse
adj. (of a person) having a rough or harsh voice
The word "hoarse" traces back to Old English hās, meaning "rough or harsh in sound." It shares roots with Old Norse hāss and Middle Dutch heesch, all conveying the idea of dryness or roughness in voice. The modern spelling emerged in Middle English, influenced by the unrelated word "horse" (likely due to folk etymology). The core concept of vocal strain or dryness has remained consistent throughout its evolution.
After cheering at the concert, her voice became hoarse.
The teacher spoke in a hoarse whisper due to a sore throat.
His hoarse laughter echoed through the empty room.
The actor deliberately made his voice hoarse for the role.
A hoarse cough kept him awake all night.