Bugle

/ˈbjuː.ɡəl/ noun

Definition

A bugle is a simple brass instrument like a small trumpet, used especially in the military to play signals. It has no valves and can only play a limited set of notes.

Etymology

From Middle English “bugle,” meaning “wild ox” or “buffalo,” from Latin “buculus,” “young bull.” The name shifted from the animal to a horn made from its horn or associated with calling cattle.

Kelly Says

The instrument bugle traces back to bulls and oxen—early horns were literally animal horns. A word that once pointed at a young bull now points at the sound you might use to call soldiers to wake up.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.