Honking

/ˈhɑŋkɪŋ/ verb/adjective

Definition

Making a loud, sharp sound like a goose or horn; can also mean something is very good or impressive in British slang.

Etymology

From imitative root 'honk' (1500s), originally imitating the sound of geese. The word became associated with car horns in the 20th century and gained slang meanings in British English.

Kelly Says

The word 'honk' is purely imitative—it literally sounds like what it describes—which is why languages across the world have similar-sounding words for this noise, yet in British slang it suddenly means 'great,' showing how the same sound can mean opposite things in different contexts.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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