DictionaryhornWarning signal
noun / verb

horn

A hollow instrument that projects a loud sound.

The driver sounds the horn to warn nearby cyclists.

Etymology

An animal’s horn could be hollowed and used to produce a loud signal. Its name extended to other sound-producing instruments and devices serving a similar purpose.

More examples

  • She squeezes her bicycle horn as she approaches the corner.
  • A ship's horn echoes across the harbor.
  • He plays the horn in the school band.

Forms

horn · horns · horned · horning

Similar words

siren
Usually makes a sustained, wailing warning rather than a honk.
whistle
Produces a high, sharp sound as air passes through.