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Hackle: meaning, definitions and examples

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hackle

 

[ ˈhækəl ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

animal anatomy

Hackles are the long, stiff feathers along the neck of a bird, particularly noticeable in males during mating displays. They can also refer to the hair on the back of an animal's neck that stands upright when it is threatened or excited.

Synonyms

feathers, fur, hair

Examples of usage

  • The rooster's hackles rose as it prepared to fight.
  • The dog's hackles were raised when it sensed danger.
  • Birdwatchers admired the vibrant hackles of the peacock.
Context #2 | Verb

raise/show emotion

To hackle means to raise the hackles, indicating a state of agitation or excitement, typically used in reference to animals. It can also refer to being on guard or ready to defend oneself.

Synonyms

bristle, rise, stand up

Examples of usage

  • The cat hackled as it faced the approaching dog.
  • He could feel his hackles hackling at the unexpected criticism.
  • She felt her hackles rise when she heard the news.

Translations

Translations of the word "hackle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hackle

🇮🇳 हैकल

🇩🇪 Hackle

🇮🇩 hackle

🇺🇦 хакл

🇵🇱 hackle

🇯🇵 ハックル

🇫🇷 hackle

🇪🇸 hackle

🇹🇷 hackle

🇰🇷 해클

🇸🇦 hackle

🇨🇿 hackle

🇸🇰 hackle

🇨🇳 hackle

🇸🇮 hackle

🇮🇸 hackle

🇰🇿 hackle

🇬🇪 hackle

🇦🇿 hackle

🇲🇽 hackle

Word origin

The term 'hackle' originates from Middle English 'haccle' or 'hackyl', which was derived from the Old English 'hæcce', meaning a feather or crest. It refers historically to the long feathers that adorn the necks of certain bird species, particularly during mating rituals or displays of dominance. The word has been associated with raised fur or feathers since the medieval period, where it conveyed the idea of a creature presenting itself in a more intimidating posture. In the 19th century, the vernacular expanded to include the connotation of being on alert, embodying the defensive stance seen in animals when they feel threatened. This evolution of usage shows a clear connection to both the physical characteristics of animals and their emotional responses.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,962, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.