honk

UK: hɒŋk | US: hɑːŋk

Definition

  1. n. the loud, harsh sound made by a goose or a car horn

  2. vi. to make a honking sound

Structure

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Etymology

"Honk" is an onomatopoeic term, imitating the sound it describes—originally the cry of a goose, later extended to mechanical sounds like car horns. Its spelling and pronunciation directly mimic the abrupt, resonant noise, making it a classic example of sound symbolism in English.

Examples

  1. The geese flew overhead with a loud honk.

  2. He honked the car horn impatiently in traffic.

  3. A distant honk signaled the arrival of the taxi.

  4. The clown squeezed the rubber chicken, producing a silly honk.

  5. Drivers often honk during rush hour out of frustration.