Hackled: meaning, definitions and examples

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hackled

 

[ˈhækəld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

feathers, hair

Hackled refers to the state of being raised or bristled, often used to describe the feathers of a bird or the fur of an animal when it is in a state of alarm or threat. When animals feel afraid or challenged, they may hackle their feathers or fur to appear larger or more intimidating. This reaction is an instinctive part of their defense mechanism.

Synonyms

bristled, raised, ruffled.

Examples of usage

  • The dog's hackled fur revealed its fear.
  • The hackled feathers of the angry bird stood on end.
  • He felt hackled when he heard the loud noise.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Middle English 'hackle', referring to the long feathers on a bird's neck, often raised in readiness or aggression.
  • Old Norse influences can be traced in the term, emphasizing the connection to animal behavior and physical reaction to threats.

Animal Behavior

  • Many animals, like cats and dogs, exhibit similar responses when feeling threatened, raising their fur or hackles to appear larger and more intimidating.
  • Hackling in animals serves as a warning signal, indicating they might attack if they feel cornered.

Psychology

  • Feelings associated with being 'hackled' can lead to 'fight or flight' responses, a natural reaction to perceived danger.
  • The term also captures moments of indignation, representing both instinctive and learned emotional responses to social conflicts.

Literature

  • Writers sometimes use 'hackled' to create vivid imagery of characters experiencing intense emotions, often in conflict or at a climax.
  • The phrase 'hackles raised' is commonly used in literature to symbolize tension and impending confrontation.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV shows, when a character's hackles are raised, it often means something suspenseful is about to happen.
  • The expression is frequently used in discussions about conflicts, portraying moments of high emotion and tension.

Translations

Translations of the word "hackled" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desgostoso

🇮🇳 टूटना

🇩🇪 unbequem

🇮🇩 tidak nyaman

🇺🇦 незручний

🇵🇱 niewygodny

🇯🇵 不快な

🇫🇷 inconfortable

🇪🇸 incómodo

🇹🇷 rahatsız

🇰🇷 불편한

🇸🇦 غير مريح

🇨🇿 nepohodlný

🇸🇰 nepohodlný

🇨🇳 不舒服

🇸🇮 neprijeten

🇮🇸 óþægilegur

🇰🇿 қолайсыз

🇬🇪 არამყარი

🇦🇿 narahat

🇲🇽 incómodo