Definition

A loud sound made by a horn or similar device, often used to get attention or signal something.

Example

The honking of the car horns filled the street during the parade.

Conversation

Did you hear all that honking outside earlier?

Yeah, it was so loud! I thought it was an emergency.

I wonder what caused all that honking in the first place.

Maybe there was an accident or something blocking the road.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make a loud sound, typically like a horn, often used to signal or get attention.

Example

The car was honking loudly as it drove past the crowd.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear all that honking outside?

Yeah, it sounded like there was some kind of traffic jam.

I wonder what’s causing all the honking today.

Root Explanation

Honking originates from the Middle English word 'honken', which is imitative of the sound made by a goose or a horn. The word describes the loud, harsh sound produced by a vehicle's horn, resembling the noise made by geese.

Memory Tip

Imagine the loud sound of a goose 'honking' — that's why 'honking' refers to the noise made by a car horn.

Visually Confused Words