Haw: meaning, definitions and examples

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haw

 

[ hɔː ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

calling out

To haw means to clear the throat, often as a precursor to speaking or coughing. It can also refer to the act of calling out or signaling, particularly in a loud or attention-seeking manner.

Synonyms

call, cough, shout.

Examples of usage

  • He hawed loudly to get their attention.
  • She hawed before making her important announcement.
  • The auctioneer began to haw after raising the paddle.
Context #2 | Noun

bird species

A haw is a type of bird, specifically referring to various birds of prey in the family Accipitridae. These birds are known for their keen eyesight and strong talons, making them effective hunters.

Synonyms

bird of prey, raptor.

Examples of usage

  • The haw was soaring high above the valley.
  • We spotted a haw perched on the tree.
  • Haw populations have declined due to habitat loss.

Translations

Translations of the word "haw" in other languages:

🇵🇹 haw

🇮🇳 हॉव

🇩🇪 haw

🇮🇩 haw

🇺🇦 haw

🇵🇱 haw

🇯🇵 ハワイ

🇫🇷 haw

🇪🇸 haw

🇹🇷 haw

🇰🇷 하와이

🇸🇦 هاواي

🇨🇿 haw

🇸🇰 haw

🇨🇳 夏威夷

🇸🇮 haw

🇮🇸 haw

🇰🇿 гави

🇬🇪 ჰავაი

🇦🇿 haw

🇲🇽 haw

Etymology

The word 'haw' has several origins depending on its use. The verb form is an onomatopoeic representation associated with the sound made when clearing the throat. This usage likely emerged in the English language around the 16th century. In contrast, the noun form referring to the bird comes from Middle English 'hake,' which is a red-tailed hawk family term derived from Old English 'hāc,' meaning 'hawk.' Over the centuries, the term has evolved but retained its association with birds of prey, showcasing the language's richness in adaptation and sound symbolism. The dual meanings of 'haw' illustrate the flexibility of English vocabulary, allowing for both auditory mimicry in verbs and taxonomic classification in nouns.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,332, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.