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verb

hurl

hurl

Hurl (verb) means to throw something with great force. Example: “He hurled the rock as far as he could into the lake.”

verb
1
To throw something with great force.
"He hurled the rock as far as he could into the lake."
"She hurled her phone across the room in frustration."
2
To shout harsh or abusive words at someone.
"Fans hurled insults at the referee after the call."
3
To vomit.
"He felt so sick on the boat that he thought he might hurl."

How to use hurl

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo throw something hard, to yell abuse at someone, or (informally) to be sick.

When to use it

The "vomit" sense is very informal/slang.

Common pairings
hurl abuse hurl a rock hurl insults

Word forms

hurled past tense, hurls plural, hurls singular

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He _____ the rock as far as he could into the lake.

Etymology

From Middle English hurlen, likely imitating the sound of something being flung violently — related to hurry and hurtle.

Origin: Middle English

Related words

Rhymes for hurl

See all rhymes for hurl →

Frequently asked questions

What does “hurl” mean?

The word “hurl” means to throw something with great force. In plain terms, to throw something hard, to yell abuse at someone, or (informally) to be sick.

How do you pronounce “hurl”?

“Hurl” is pronounced hurl (/hɝl/ in IPA).

How do you use “hurl” in a sentence?

Here is “hurl” used in a sentence: “He hurled the rock as far as he could into the lake.”

What part of speech is “hurl”?

“Hurl” is a verb.

Where does the word “hurl” come from?

The word “hurl” comes from Middle English. From Middle English hurlen, likely imitating the sound of something being flung violently — related to hurry and hurtle.

How many meanings does “hurl” have?

“Hurl” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to throw something with great force.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial