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Cackling: meaning, definitions and examples

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cackling

 

[ ˈkæk.lɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

bird calls

Cackling refers to the harsh, sudden, and often repetitive sound made by certain birds, particularly geese. It can also describe a type of laughter that is loud and somewhat unpleasant. This sound is commonly associated with a sense of alarm or excitement among birds. In colloquial usage, cackling can also refer to laughter that is sharp and mocking. The term has various applications in both ornithology and social interactions.

Synonyms

laughing, screaming, squawking

Examples of usage

  • The geese were cackling loudly in the park.
  • Her cackling laughter filled the room.
  • The hens cackled after laying fresh eggs.

Translations

Translations of the word "cackling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gargalhando

🇮🇳 खिलखिलाना

🇩🇪 krächzen

🇮🇩 tertawa terbahak-bahak

🇺🇦 кукушка

🇵🇱 chichotać

🇯🇵 キャッキャ笑う

🇫🇷 cancaner

🇪🇸 cacklear

🇹🇷 güle güle gülmek

🇰🇷 깔깔 웃다

🇸🇦 ضحك بصوت عال

🇨🇿 chichotat

🇸🇰 chichotať

🇨🇳 咯咯笑

🇸🇮 cvrčati

🇮🇸 kalla í hlátur

🇰🇿 күлкі

🇬🇪 ჭიატა

🇦🇿 gülmək

🇲🇽 reírse a carcajadas

Etymology

The word 'cackle' is thought to have originated from the Middle English word 'caklen', which is derived from the Old English 'caecel' meaning to chatter or to make a noise. This word is linked to the sounds made by certain birds, especially those in the duck and goose families, known for their distinctive calls. Over time, the interpretation expanded from merely describing bird sounds to encompass any harsh or discordant laughter. This transition reflects the onomatopoeic nature of the word, where the sound of 'cackle' mimics the noise itself. By the late 16th century, the term began to be associated with the laughter of old women, often implying mockery or derision, thus gaining a somewhat negative connotation in social contexts. The evolution of 'cackle' highlights the interplay between language, sound, and social perception, showing how a term can develop layers of meaning over centuries.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,002 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.