Horn

Definition

Horn refers to a hard, pointed, often curved part that grows from the top of the head of some animals, like cows, or the material of which this is made.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɔrn/
• Respelling: HORN (with "HOR" as in "or" and "N" as in "no")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɔːn/
• Respelling: HAWN (with "HAW" as in "law" and "N" as in "no")

In both dialects, "horn" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is similar across American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "HORN" or "HAWN."

Etymology

The word "horn" originates from the Old English "horn", which is of Germanic origin and related to the Dutch "hoorn" and the German "Horn". The word is also akin to the Old Norse "horn" and the Gothic "haurn".

Derivatives

• Horned (adjective)
• Hornless (adjective)
• Hornlike (adjective)
• Horny (adjective)
• Hornist (noun)

Synonyms

• Antler
• Tusk
• Spike

Antonyms

None

Usage

The term "horn" is used in various contexts, including zoology to describe the physical structure on animals, and in music and transportation to refer to devices that produce sound. It is also used metaphorically to describe anything resembling the shape or function of an animal horn.

Related Terms

• Trumpet
• Ivory
• Keratin
• Cornet
• Bugle

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Zoological Structure: A hard, permanent outgrowth often found on the heads of animals such as cows, goats, and deer, used for defense, mating rituals, and as a symbol of status.
  • Example: The ram's curved horns are used to battle rivals.

• Musical Instrument: A wind instrument, typically made of brass or metal, used to produce sound by blowing air through it. Examples include the French horn, trumpet, and cornet.
  • Example: He played a beautiful solo on his French horn.

• Sound Device: An instrument or device that produces a loud sound, such as a car horn or a foghorn, often used as a signal or warning.
  • Example: The driver honked the car horn to alert pedestrians.

• Metaphorical Usage: Anything that resembles or functions like an animal horn.
  • Example: The mountain had a horn-shaped peak.

Note: "Horn" has diverse meanings, from the pointed projections on animals to musical instruments and signals in vehicles. It has both natural and man-made contexts, making it a versatile term in English language.