Brayed: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'brayed' comes from the Middle English word 'braien,' which also means to make the sound of a donkey.
• Its origins can be traced back to the Old French word 'braier,' highlighting the context of animal sounds.

Cultural Usage

• In literature and folklore, braying often symbolizes stubbornness or foolishness, reflecting the animals' reputation.
• The sound is commonly used in children's stories to add comic relief, often emphasizing the humorous traits of donkeys.

Animal Behavior

• Braying serves various purposes in donkey social interactions, including calling out to other donkeys or expressing distress.
• It's a communicative sound that can vary in tone and volume, indicating different emotions like hunger or discomfort.

Sound Dynamics

• Braying can be quite loud and can travel over distances, making it an effective alarm or call.
• The sound occurs in a series of pitches, with a characteristic 'hee-haw' rhythm that is distinctive to donkeys.

Ranking #36,361, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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