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cackle

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ˈkækəl/

KK: /ˈkækəl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To laugh in a loud, high-pitched way, often in a way that sounds silly or annoying.


Example

The children began to cackle with laughter when they heard the funny joke.


Tense Forms

Past: cackled

Past Participle: cackled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear her cackle when she got that joke?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was so funny!
Sloth A
I didn't expect her to laugh like that, it sounded hilarious!
Sloth B
Right? It really made the whole moment even better.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
laugh
squawk
chuckle
Antonyms
whisper
mourn
sigh
noun
Definition

A loud, harsh laugh that sounds like a series of short, sharp sounds, often associated with excitement or amusement.


Example

The comedian's jokes made the audience erupt in cackles of laughter.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that cackle from the other room?
Sloth B
Yeah, it sounded like someone was having a blast!
Sloth A
It must be Sarah; she always has the loudest cackle at parties.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To make a loud, harsh laugh or sound, often in a way that is mocking or unpleasant.


Example

She cackled with delight when she heard the joke.


Tense Forms

Past: cackled

Past Participle: cackled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear her cackle during the meeting yesterday?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was so loud and unexpected!
Sloth A
I thought she was joking, but she was serious.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Cackle → The word 'cackle' originates from Middle English 'cacklen', which is imitative in nature, resembling the sound made by a hen. It describes the sharp, broken sound that chickens make, particularly when laying eggs or in excitement.

Memory Tip

Imagine the sound of a hen making a sharp, broken noise — that's what 'cackle' means, reflecting the sound itself.

Visually Confused Words
crackle
chackle
caickle
crackled
chackler
tackle
rackle
mackle
Is this page helpful?
True! It’s hard not to smile when she laughs like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chatter
laugh
giggle
Antonyms
silence
seriousness
soberness
Right? That cackle really caught everyone off guard.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
squawk
scream
chortle
Antonyms
whisper
mumble
silence