howl
UK: haʊl | US: haʊl
n. a prolonged, mournful cry (typically of a dog, wolf, or other animal)
vi. to utter a loud, prolonged, mournful sound
vi. (of wind) to make a wailing noise
The word "howl" originates from Old English hūlian, meaning "to cry out or wail." It is likely imitative in origin, mimicking the sound of a loud, mournful cry. This onomatopoeic quality makes it a non-splittable word, as it evolved directly from sound symbolism rather than compound morphemes. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the sounds of wind or other mournful noises.
The wolf let out a haunting howl under the full moon.
The wind howled through the cracks in the old cabin.
The dog began to howl when it heard the distant siren.
She could hear the howl of the storm approaching.
His laughter turned into a howl of pain when he stubbed his toe.