Meaning & Definition of word "Horn"
to
Horn
/hɔrn/
noun:
- 1. A hard, permanent outgrowth, often curved and pointed, found in pairs on the heads of many animals.
- Example: The bull charged with its sharp horns lowered, ready to defend its territory.
- 2. A conical instrument that produces musical tones when blown into.
- Example: The trumpet is a brass horn that is popular in jazz music.
- 3. A signal device that produces a loud sound, often used in vehicles.
- Example: He honked the car horn to alert the pedestrian to move.
- 4. A device used for signaling, often a loud and abrupt sound.
- Example: The ship's horn blared as it departed from the harbor.
- 5. The outer shell of certain marine mollusks, resembling a horn in shape.
- Example: He collected a beautiful conch shell, which resembled a spiraled horn.
verb:
- 1. To sound a horn, typically to signal or alert.
- Example: She horned the car to let the cyclist know she was coming.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'horn', related to similar words in German and Dutch.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to blow one's own horn:
To boast or brag about one's achievements.
horned in:
To intrude or interfere in an unwanted manner.
on the horn of a dilemma:
Facing a difficult choice between two options.
Related Words
antler:
A deciduous horn on a male deer, consisting of dendritic bony structures.
brass:
A family of instruments made of brass, including the horn.
bugle:
A brass instrument similar to a trumpet, without valves, used especially for military signals.
Slang Meanings of horn
Meaning: Horny
Example Sentence: He was feeling horned up after watching the movie.
Meaning: Horn dog
Example Sentence: He's such a horn dog; he's always chasing after girls.