honk

[hongk, hawngk]

noun

1. the cry of a goose.

2. any similar sound, as of an automobile horn.

verb (used without object)

1. to emit a honk.

2. to cause an automobile horn to sound.

   He drove up in front of the house and honked.

verb (used with object)

1. to cause (an automobile horn) to sound.

   The driver honked his horn impatiently.

honk

/ hɒŋk /

noun

1. a representation of the sound made by a goose

2. any sound resembling this, esp a motor horn

3. slang,  a bad smell

verb

1. to make or cause (something) to make such a sound

2. (intr) a slang word for vomit

3. slang,  to have a bad smell

Word History and Origins

Origin of honk¹

An Americanism dating back to 1790–1800; imitative

Example Sentences

On Thursday, many people driving by the Kirk memorials honked in support.

From Los Angeles Times

Drivers honk in approval and locals cheer on the members, a fixture in the Valley.

From Los Angeles Times

He has observed them nesting on prairies in Canada, hearing their muffled honks.

From Los Angeles Times

"We were trying to rescue the young men, when the army came, honking at us and telling us to get away from here," Yahya al-Khatib said.

From BBC

Bystanders blew whistles, yelled and honked their horns at the agents.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• beep 
• blare