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Howled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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howled

[haสŠld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

animal sound

To howl is to make a long, loud, mournful sound, typically associated with wolves, dogs, and other animals. This sound can serve various purposes, including communication with others in the pack or signaling distress.

Synonyms

cry, wail, yowl.

Examples of usage

  • The wolf howled at the moon.
  • The dog howled when it was left alone.
  • We could hear the coyotes howling in the distance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Howling for wolves is a form of communication, helping them to gather the pack and establish territory.
  • Dogs may howl to express loneliness or to get attention from their owners; it's a way to say they need something.

Culture

  • In many cultures, howling is associated with the moon, particularly due to the connection with wolves who are often depicted howling at night.
  • Howls are often used in horror films to create suspense or signify danger, making them a popular sound choice in storytelling.

Scientific Perspectives

  • Studies show that howling can vary among different wolf species, with each having their own unique howl that can convey different messages.
  • Research indicates that dog howling may resemble the sounds of their wild ancestors, suggesting a strong evolutionary link.

Literature

  • Howling is often a symbol of longing or sorrow in poetry, used to express deep emotional states.
  • Classic literature often features howling as a form of how characters relate to their wildness or to nature, as in works by authors like Jack London.

Origin of 'howled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'howl' comes from the Old English 'hul', which means to shout or cry out.
  • It has connections to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as the Dutch 'huilen', also meaning to cry out.

The word 'howled' originates from the Middle English 'houlen,' which itself comes from the Old English 'hลซlian' meaning 'to howl.' The term is believed to have roots in Germanic languages, sharing similarities with Old Norse 'hรบla' which refers to the sound of a wolf or similar animal. The evolution of the word reflects its usage across centuries, depicting the characteristic sounds made by canines and other animals. Over time, 'howl' has also found metaphorical usage in literature and music, often conveying feelings of sadness or longing, as well as representing the wild and untamed aspects of nature.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,519, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.