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hackles Synonyms
Another word for hackles
Choosing another word for hackles depends on context, so the synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• noun (Context 1)
A state of anger, hostility, or defensive indignation (used especially in phrases such as 'raise someone's hackles').
Usage Example
"His condescending tone immediately raised the dander of everyone on the committee."
Strong
dander
ire
indignation
anger
• noun (Context 2)
Erectile hairs along the back of the neck of a dog or other mammal, or the long neck feathers of a domestic rooster or other bird, which rise when the animal is angry, frightened, or alarmed.
Usage Example
"The stray dog growled softly, its bristles rising as the stranger approached the gate."
Strong
bristles
Opposites of hackles
The opposite of hackles shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
composure
calmness
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Hackles. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/hackles