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Neighed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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neighed

[neษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

horse sound

Neighed is the past tense of the verb 'neigh', which refers to the sound made by a horse. This sound is typically a loud call that can be heard from a distance. Horses neigh for various reasons, including to communicate with other horses, to express excitement or distress, or to get the attention of their riders. It is an important part of equine communication and behavior.

Synonyms

brayed, snorted, whinnied.

Examples of usage

  • The horse neighed when it saw its owner.
  • As the rider approached, the horse neighed eagerly.
  • In the field, the stallion neighed to attract the mares.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Horses neigh to communicate with each other, especially when they are excited or wanting to connect.
  • The pitch and length of a neigh can express different emotions, like happiness or distress.
  • Neighing is often heard when horses are separated, indicating they miss their friends.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the neighing of a horse is seen as a sign of strength and nobility.
  • Stories often depict heroes riding horses that neigh at significant moments, enhancing their relationship.
  • Horse racing events frequently use the sound of horses neighing to build excitement among spectators.

Linguistics

  • The word 'neigh' is a type of onomatopoeia, meaning it imitates the sound it describes.
  • Different languages have their own versions of the sound horses make; for instance, in Spanish, itโ€™s 'relinchar'.
  • The verb 'neigh' is unique to horses, showcasing a rich area of animal sounds in human language.

Literature

  • Horses have been featured in various literary works where their neighing plays a crucial role in setting a scene.
  • In classic literature, the sound often signifies the arrival or departure of important characters, heightening dramatic tension.
  • Poets have used the sound of neighing to symbolize freedom and wildness in their verses.

Science

  • Horses make various vocalizations, but neighing is distinctive because it can be heard from quite a distance.
  • Scientists study horse communication, discovering that they have a complex set of vocal and non-vocal interactions.
  • The frequency of a horse's neigh can be influenced by its mood and environment, showcasing the animal's emotional range.

Origin of 'neighed'

The word 'neigh' originates from the Old English 'nฤh', which meant to make the sound typical of a horse. Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word '*nฤ“hwan', which also reflects similar meanings in related languages. Over time, it has been used in English to describe the characteristic sound that horses produce. The usage of the term has been consistent in equestrian contexts, where understanding and interpreting a horse's vocalizations is essential for communication and training. Historically, the sound of a horse has been significant in agriculture and transport, as horses were widely used as working animals across different cultures and periods. Understanding their sounds, including 'neighing', has been valuable for handlers and riders.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,956, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.