Hooted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hooted

[หˆhuหtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

animal sound

Hooted is the past tense of hoot, which refers to the characteristic sound made by certain animals, particularly owls. It can also be used in a broader sense to describe the sounds made by other animals or even by humans in specific contexts, such as cheering or expressing disapproval. The sound is often deep and resonant, associated with the nighttime calls of owls. In addition, hooted can describe situations where someone yells or cheers loudly, typically in a playful or rowdy manner.

Synonyms

called, shouted, whooped, yelled.

Examples of usage

  • The owl hooted in the dark woods.
  • The crowd hooted with excitement after the goal.
  • She hooted like an owl to scare her friends.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Owls hoot to communicate with each other, especially during mating season to establish territory.
  • Different species of owls have unique hoots, each with distinct meanings and purposes.
  • Hooting can also serve as a warning signal among birds, alerting them to potential dangers.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'hoot' has been used in comedy routines to describe someone who is funny or silly.
  • In 1970s American slang, 'to hoot' referred to having a good time or laughing heartily.
  • Films and cartoons often depict owls as wise characters, using their hooting as a sign of intelligence.

Psychology

  • Humans often hoot or honk to express excitement or frustration while driving, showcasing our emotional connection to sound.
  • Researchers believe that animals, like owls, use vocalizations as a form of social bonding.
  • Hooting or making sounds in playful environments can enhance group dynamics and lead to positive social interactions.

Literature

  • Hooting appears in many children's stories, often symbolizing the nocturnal nature of owls and their mysterious presence.
  • In poetry, the hooting of owls is often used to evoke feelings of loneliness or nostalgia.
  • Famous authors like Edgar Allan Poe have used references to hooting as part of their exploration of themes like death and loss.

Origin of 'hooted'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hoot' comes from the Old English 'hลtian' which means to shout or cry out.
  • In the early 20th century, 'hoot' began being used to describe the sound made by owls in English literature.
  • Hooted can also refer to loud laughter or ridicule as seen in various literary works.

The word 'hoot' has its origins in the Old English word 'hลtian,' which means to make a sound similar to that of an owl. This term has evolved through various forms in Middle English, often appearing in the context of imitating owl sounds or referring to the specific calls of nocturnal birds. By the late 15th century, the verb 'hoot' began to be used more generally to describe loud, high-pitched sounds made by humans, especially in sporting events or moments of enthusiasm. The transition from animal sounds to human vocalizations demonstrates the versatility of the word over time, allowing 'hooting' to encompass various expressions of excitement or disapproval, thus expanding its usage considerably.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,767, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.