Advertisement - Continue reading below

Definition of "howl" []

  • To utter or emit a long, mournful, plaintive sound. (verb-intransitive)
  • To cry or wail loudly, as in pain, sorrow, or anger. (verb-intransitive)
  • Slang To laugh heartily. (verb-intransitive)
  • Slang To go on a spree. (verb-intransitive)
  • To express or utter with a howl. See Synonyms at shout. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "howl" in a sentence
  • "This foreshadowing of the Messiah's coming brought a hoarse howl from the Sticks as they leaped to their feet."
  • "The only time I use a howl is to make sure the yotes are around."
  • "There was a collective howl from the audience: not singing but screaming."