hoot

hoot · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (Of an owl) To make its characteristic cry.

  2. 2.

    The cry of an owl.

  3. 3.

    To sound a horn or whistle.

  4. 4.

    A sound made by a horn, whistle, or siren.

  5. 5.

    To shout in scorn or disapproval.

  6. 6.

    A shout of scorn or disapproval.

  7. 7.

    (Informal) An amusing person, thing, or situation.

  8. 8.

    (Informal, with negative) The slightest amount.

Forms

plural: hoots

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    not give a hoot — to not care at all
  • •
    a hoot and a half — something very amusing
  • •
    hoot with laughter — to laugh loudly

Related words

See also: howl, owl, screech
Synonyms: cry, howl, screech

Etymology

Middle English houten, of imitative origin, representing the sound made by an owl. The slang sense meaning "amusing thing" developed in American English in the early 20th century.