horn

[hɔːn]

horn Definition

  • 1a hard permanent outgrowth, often curved and pointed, found in pairs on the heads of cattle, sheep, goats, giraffes, etc.
  • 2a device for making a loud noise, especially one on a vehicle
  • 3one of the sections of a brass or woodwind instrument that produces sound by the vibration of the lips against a cup- or funnel-shaped mouthpiece

Using horn: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "horn" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The rhinoceros has two horns on its snout.

  • Example

    The car's horn blared loudly as it approached the intersection.

  • Example

    He played a beautiful melody on his French horn.

horn Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for horn

Phrases with horn

  • to blow one's own horn

    to boast about one's own achievements or abilities

    Example

    I don't like to blow my own horn, but I did get the highest score in the class.

  • to become involved in a dispute or argument

    Example

    The two politicians locked horns over the issue of healthcare reform.

  • to confront a difficult situation with courage and determination

    Example

    She decided to take the bull by the horns and ask her boss for a raise.

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Summary: horn in Brief

The term 'horn' [hɔːn] refers to a hard permanent outgrowth found in pairs on the heads of animals like cattle, sheep, goats, and giraffes. It also denotes a device for making a loud noise, especially on a vehicle, and one of the sections of a brass or woodwind instrument. Phrases like 'to blow one's own horn,' 'to lock horns,' and 'to take the bull by the horns' are idiomatic expressions that convey boasting, disputes, and courage, respectively.

How do native speakers use this expression?