Cackle: meaning, definitions and examples

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cackle

[ˈkækəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

sound

To make a harsh, usually high-pitched noise, like a hen after laying an egg.

Synonyms

chuckle, giggle, laugh.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cackle	This word is often used to describe an unpleasant, sharp, and harsh laugh that might sound a bit like a hen. It has a somewhat negative connotation and can suggest malice or a witch-like character. The villain's cackle echoed through the dark, empty hall. She let out a cackle when she heard the mischievous plan.
chuckle	This term is used for a quiet, gentle laugh, often one that shows mild amusement or satisfaction. It's a soft and easygoing reaction, not as intense as a full laugh. He couldn't help but chuckle at the little boy's antics. She gave a quiet chuckle when she remembered the joke.
laugh	This is the most general word for the act of making sounds to show amusement, joy, or sometimes even a nervous reaction. It can vary greatly in intensity and type, from light chuckles to hearty belly laughs. She loved to laugh at his clever jokes. The whole room burst into laughter after the comedian finished his joke.
giggle	This word is typically used for a high-pitched, repeated laugh that often occurs when someone is being very amused or nervous. It's usually associated with children or situations where someone finds something particularly funny or silly. The girls began to giggle uncontrollably at the funny story. He always giggles when he's feeling nervous.

Examples of usage

The old witch cackled loudly as she stirred her cauldron.
The group of hyenas cackled in the distance.
The evil villain cackled with glee as his plan unfolded.
She couldn't help but cackle with laughter at the joke.
The witch's laugh echoed through the forest, a cackle that sent shivers down the spine.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sound

A loud, harsh laugh.

Synonyms

chuckle, giggle, laugh.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cackle	Cackle is often used to describe a loud, harsh laugh, especially in a way that might sound evil or mocking. It can have a negative connotation and is often associated with villains or witches in stories. The witch cackled as she stirred her bubbling potion. He let out a cackle when he heard the news of their misfortune.
laugh	Laugh is a general term for the sound or act of laughing. It can range from a soft chuckle to a loud, hearty laugh. It is versatile and can be used in most situations where someone finds something amusing. Everyone laughed at the comedian's jokes. He burst into laughter when he saw the hilarious video.
chuckle	Chuckle is a soft, suppressed laugh that might be quiet. It is often used to express amusement without loudness, typically in a gentle or kind manner. She chuckled at the cute antics of the little puppy. He couldn't help but chuckle at his friend's silly joke.
giggle	Giggle refers to a light, silly laugh, often high-pitched and sometimes uncontrollable. It is often associated with children or situations involving fun and playfulness. The children giggled as they played hide and seek. She couldn't stop giggling during the funny movie.

Examples of usage

The cackle of the hyenas could be heard from miles away.
Her cackle filled the room, making everyone uneasy.
The witch's cackle was so eerie, it made the hair on the back of my neck stand up.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Middle English word 'kaklen,' which means to make a harsh sound.
It is possibly related to the Old French word 'cachier,' meaning to laugh loudly or loudly cry.
The term began being used in English in the 15th century to describe the cawing sound of some birds.

Pop Culture

Cackling is often used to describe witches’ laughter in stories and movies, emphasizing their mischievous nature.
In animated films, characters that cackle tend to be comically villainous, making the laugh memorable.
Popular TV shows and cartoons often feature characters with distinct cackling laughs to create a recognizable identity.

Psychology

Laughter, including cackling, can be a social signal, indicating happiness or amusement in a group setting.
Studies show that loud laughter may release more endorphins, giving people a stronger feeling of joy.
Excessive cackling can sometimes be perceived as nervousness or a coping mechanism during awkward situations.

Literature

Cackling often conveys a character's madness or eccentricity in literature, hinting at a deeper understanding of their psyche.
In many fairy tales, the loud laughter of an antagonist is used to set a tone of fear or foreboding.
Authors might use the sound of cackling to contrast with a tense scene, providing comic relief through absurdity.

Wildlife

Some birds, like the hen, are known for their cackling sounds, especially after laying eggs, which can be interpreted as a celebratory noise.
Wild animals use cackling or similar sounds as a form of communication, to warn others of danger or to attract mates.
In nature documentaries, cackling sounds made by certain species often highlight their social interactions and behaviors.

Translations

Translations of the word "cackle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cacarejar

🇮🇳 काकली

🇩🇪 krächzen

🇮🇩 berkokok

🇺🇦 кукушка

🇵🇱 gdaczeć

🇯🇵 かけ声を上げる

🇫🇷 caqueter

🇪🇸 cacarear

🇹🇷 gaklamak

🇰🇷 꽥꽥거리다

🇸🇦 صياح

🇨🇿 kdákat

🇸🇰 kokotať

🇨🇳 咯咯笑

🇸🇮 kikirati

🇮🇸 gakga

🇰🇿 кекіру

🇬🇪 კაკრაზობა

🇦🇿 qışqırmaq

🇲🇽 cacarear

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,836 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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