Meaning of the word hoot in English

What does hoot mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

hoot

US /huːt/
UK /huːt/
"hoot" picture

Noun

1.

a loud, sustained sound characteristic of an owl

Example:
•
We heard the distinct hoot of an owl in the distance.
•
The sudden hoot made me jump.
2.

a short, sharp sound made by a horn or whistle

Example:
•
The driver gave a quick hoot of the horn.
•
The train's distant hoot signaled its approach.
3.

something or someone amusing or ridiculous

Example:
•
The whole situation was a real hoot.
•
He's a real hoot at parties.

Verb

1.

to make a loud, sustained sound characteristic of an owl

Example:
•
The owl hooted from its perch in the tree.
•
We heard the owls hooting all night.
2.

to make a short, sharp sound with a horn or whistle

Example:
•
He hooted his horn impatiently at the slow driver.
•
The referee hooted his whistle to signal the end of the game.
3.

to express disapproval or contempt by shouting 'hoot!' or similar sounds

Example:
•
The crowd began to hoot at the poor performance.
•
They hooted with laughter at his silly joke.