Definition

Having a rough or grating voice, often due to illness or overuse.

Example

After cheering for hours at the game, I woke up with a hoarse voice.

Conversation

Hey, why does your voice sound so hoarse today?

I went to a concert last night and yelled a lot!

That makes sense; concerts can be really loud.

Yeah, but it was totally worth it, even with this hoarse voice!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hoarse originates from Old English 'hars', meaning rough or harsh. The word describes a rough or harsh quality of voice, often due to strain or illness.

Memory Tip

Think of a voice that sounds 'rough' or 'harsh' — that's what hoarse means.

Visually Confused Words