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

Planes were grounded, construction work halted, and car honking discouraged as the Suneung, an eight-hour university placement exam billed as one of the toughest in the world, kicked off on Thursday.

From BBC

He wants each episode to feel as immersive as possible, which means including surrounding noise like buses honking, a busker singing in an alleyway or a volunteer asking if we have time for gay rights.

From Los Angeles Times

The incessant beeping and honking penetrate her soundproof windows.

From Los Angeles Times

Coming upon the attack, a nearby neighbor honked their car horn, scaring the cougar away.

From Los Angeles Times

The company, in response to an inquiry from The Times, said that it was “aware that in some scenarios our vehicles may briefly honk while navigating our parking lots.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• beep
• blare