Hoarse

/hɔrs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

having a rough or harsh sound due to the irritation or inflammation of the vocal cords.

After cheering loudly at the concert, she woke up the next morning feeling hoarse.

characterized by having a low, raspy voice.

He spoke in a hoarse whisper as if he were trying not to disturb anyone.

often sounding strained or weak.

The hoarse cries of the wounded animal echoed through the forest.

Middle English 'hors', from Old English 'has', meaning 'rough, grating'.

hoarse voice

A voice that is rough and harsh, often due to illness.

hoarse shout

A shout that sounds rough or weak, often indicating strain.

hoarse from yelling

Having a rough voice as a result of yelling.

rasp

A harsh or grating sound.

gruff

Rough or stern in manner or speech.

croak

To make a low, hoarse sound.

To have a voice that is barely audible.

I was so hoarse, it felt like I was whispering a secret all night.

To sound like a frog.

Man, after that party, I was totally hoarse, like a frog.