noun

hoot

Hoot (noun) means the low, mournful call of an owl. Example: “We heard the hoot of an owl deep in the woods.”

noun

The low, mournful call of an owl.

"We heard the hoot of an owl deep in the woods."

Informal: someone or something very funny or entertaining.

"That comedian is an absolute hoot."

verb

To make the cry of an owl, or to shout in mockery or amusement.

"The crowd hooted with laughter at the joke."

How to use hoot

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn owl's call, or informally, something hilarious or a mocking shout.

Common pairings

hoot with laughter the hoot of an owl

Word forms

hooted past tense, hoots plural, Hoots plural, hoots singular

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We heard the _____ of an owl deep in the woods.

Etymology

From Middle English houten, likely of Scandinavian origin, related to old words meaning "to shout in contempt."

Origin: Middle English

Synonyms

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Rhymes for hoot

oot foot boot root moot loot coot toot soot doot zoot shoot

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Frequently asked questions

What does “hoot” mean?

The word “hoot” means the low, mournful call of an owl. In plain terms, an owl's call, or informally, something hilarious or a mocking shout.

How do you pronounce “hoot”?

“Hoot” is pronounced hoot (/huːt/ in IPA).

How do you use “hoot” in a sentence?

Here is “hoot” used in a sentence: “We heard the hoot of an owl deep in the woods.”

What part of speech is “hoot”?

Depending on how it is used, “hoot” can be a noun and a verb.

Where does the word “hoot” come from?

The word “hoot” comes from Middle English. From Middle English houten, likely of Scandinavian origin, related to old words meaning "to shout in contempt.".

How many meanings does “hoot” have?

“Hoot” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the low, mournful call of an owl.

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