Hoot: meaning, definitions and examples

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hoot

[huːt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sound

A low, soft sound made by certain animals, such as owls.

Synonyms

call, cry.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hoot	Duplicate entry; see definition above.
call	Commonly used to describe the act of making a phone call, asking someone to come, or making a loud cry, especially in animals or birds. I need to make a call to my friend. The coach's call for the team to gather was loud and clear. I heard the bird's morning call.
cry	Used to describe the sound of someone weeping, a loud shout or scream, or the distinctive sound an animal makes. She let out a cry when she heard the news. The baby's cry woke everyone in the house. The eagle's cry echoed in the mountains.

Word

Description / Examples

hoot

Duplicate entry; see definition above.

call

Commonly used to describe the act of making a phone call, asking someone to come, or making a loud cry, especially in animals or birds.

I need to make a call to my friend.
The coach's call for the team to gather was loud and clear.
I heard the bird's morning call.

cry

Used to describe the sound of someone weeping, a loud shout or scream, or the distinctive sound an animal makes.

She let out a cry when she heard the news.
The baby's cry woke everyone in the house.
The eagle's cry echoed in the mountains.

Examples of usage

The hoot of an owl echoed through the night.
I woke up to the hoot of a distant train.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

expression

A loud, raucous shout or cry, especially of disapproval.

Synonyms

jeer, mock, taunt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hoot	Used to express that something is very funny or causes a lot of amusement. The new comedy movie is a real hoot
jeer	Used to describe shouting or laughing at someone in a mocking or insulting manner. This word often has a negative connotation. The crowd jeered at the opposing team as they walked off the field He had to endure jeers from his classmates throughout the presentation
mock	Used when someone imitates or ridicules another person or behavior, often in a way meant to belittle or show contempt. He would often mock his friend's clumsy way of walking She tried to mock the teacher's accent to make her friends laugh
taunt	Used to describe a remark or action intended to provoke someone or make them angry. Usually carries a negative connotation. The bully taunted the younger kids on the playground He couldn't ignore the taunts from his rivals

Examples of usage

The audience responded with hoots and jeers.
The protestors let out a hoot of anger.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

laughter

To make a loud, raucous sound of laughter.

Synonyms

chuckle, guffaw, laugh.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hoot	Typically refers to a short, loud, and sometimes mocking laugh. It can also be used to describe certain sounds made by owls. Her joke was such a hit that it made everyone hoot with laughter. I heard a hoot in the distance, probably an owl.
laugh	A general term for expressing amusement or joy through vocal sounds. It can be soft or loud, depending on the situation and intensity of amusement. She couldn't hold back her laugh when she saw the funny video. His laugh was infectious and soon everyone in the room was laughing.
chuckle	Used for a soft, low laugh, usually expressing mild amusement or approval. It is often more subdued and intimate. He couldn't help but chuckle at the clever remark. She chuckled softly when she saw the cat chasing its tail.
guffaw	Refers to a loud and boisterous laugh. This term is often used to describe an uncontrollable and hearty laugh. The comedian's performance had the audience guffawing with laughter. After hearing the hilarious story, they all broke into a loud guffaw.

Examples of usage

The children hooted with laughter during the funny movie.
The crowd hooted at the comedian's jokes.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old English word 'hū,' which means to call or shout.
It has been used to describe owl sounds since the early 16th century.
In colloquial language, it also refers to cheerful laughter or loud approval.

Animal Behavior

Owls hoot as a way to communicate with each other, especially during mating season.
Different species of owls have unique hoots that serve to identify themselves.
Hooting can also be a territory marker to deter other owls.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'who gives a hoot?' is commonly used to show indifference towards something.
In movies and cartoons, owls are often portrayed as wise characters because of their hooting sound.
The Muppet character Owl, known for his humorous hoots, has become a beloved figure in children's entertainment.

Literature

Hoots have been used by authors as a motif for mystery and the night, often creating a sense of wilderness.
In poetry, the sound evokes feelings of nostalgia or comfort, reminding readers of serene mountain nights.
One famous children's book is simply titled 'Hoot,' which discusses owl conservation and the importance of nature.

Psychology

Laughing or expressing amusement through hooting can release endorphins, which improve mood.
Sounds like hooting can evoke feelings of safety and community, especially in social settings.
The sound is often associated with joy and can promote group bonding among people.

Translations

Translations of the word "hoot" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gritar

🇮🇳 चिल्लाना

🇩🇪 rufen

🇮🇩 berteriak

🇺🇦 кричати

🇵🇱 krzyczeć

🇯🇵 叫ぶ

🇫🇷 crier

🇪🇸 gritar

🇹🇷 bağırmak

🇰🇷 소리치다

🇸🇦 يصرخ

🇨🇿 křičet

🇸🇰 kričať

🇨🇳 大喊

🇸🇮 kričati

🇮🇸 hrópa

🇰🇿 айқайлау

🇬🇪 ყვირილი

🇦🇿 qışqırmaq

🇲🇽 gritar

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,503, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
26500 hotbed
26501 speckle
26502 sanded
26503 hoot
26504 marinade
26505 wiggle
26506 dispassionately
...