bugle

bu-gle · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A brass musical instrument without valves, used primarily for military signals.

  2. 2.

    To sound a bugle.

  3. 3.

    A tube-shaped glass or plastic bead used in embroidery.

  4. 4.

    (Of an elk) to make a distinctive mating call.

  5. 5.

    A plant of the mint family with blue flowers.

Forms

plural: bugles

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bugle call — a signal played on a bugle
  • •
    bugle boy — a military bugler, especially young

Related words

See also: horn, military, trumpet
Synonyms: horn, trumpet

Etymology

From Old French "bugle" (young bull), from Latin "buculus," diminutive of "bos" (ox). Originally referred to a hunting horn made from a buffalo or ox horn.