hoot
hoot Lexical Profile
hoot Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A low, wavering musical cry made by an owl, or a similar loud sound made by a horn, whistle, or siren.
"The solitary hoot of a barn owl echoed across the quiet meadow at dusk."
A loud shout or outcry expressing laughter, derision, or disapproval.
"His outrageous excuse was met with hoots of laughter from everyone in the room."
An amusing or entertaining person or thing (informal).
"Our tour guide was an absolute hoot, keeping us entertained with witty stories all afternoon."
The slightest amount of care or concern (informal, usually used in negative constructions).
"He did not give a hoot about what the critics thought of his unconventional painting style."
• verb
To utter the characteristic low, wavering cry of an owl.
"A great horned owl hooted softly from the highest branch of the oak tree."
To shout loudly in merriment, scorn, or disapproval.
"The audience hooted with laughter at the comedian's deadpan delivery."
British To sound the horn of a motor vehicle or a steam whistle.
"Impatient drivers hooted their horns while stuck in the afternoon traffic jam."
• Rhymes for hoot
Word Origin & Etymology
Originating in Middle English as 'houten' or 'huten', the word is imitative of the natural call of an owl or a loud human shout.