a hard permanent outgrowth, often curved and pointed, found in pairs on the heads of cattle, sheep, goats, giraffes, and some other animals, a device for making a loud noise, consisting of a metal or plastic tube which is curved round in the shape of a spiral and narrow at one end

lock horns, blow one's own horn, take the bull by the horns

Formal and Informal Expressions of horns

In different contexts, you can replace 'horns' with suitable alternatives. In a more informal setting, 'tusks' is apt.

horns: Explore its Definition & Usage

horns Definition

1a hard permanent outgrowth, often curved and pointed, found in pairs on the heads of cattle, sheep, goats, giraffes, and some other animals
2a device for making a loud noise, consisting of a metal or plastic tube which is curved round in the shape of a spiral and narrow at one end

Using horns: Examples

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

Example
The bull lowered its head and charged, its horns aimed at the matador.
Example
Sheep have curved horns that are used for defense against predators.
Example
The orchestra played a fanfare on their horns.
Example
He honked his car horn to get the pedestrian's attention.

horns Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for horns

antlers
tusks
spikes

Phrases with horns

lock horns
to become involved in a dispute or argument with someone
Example
The two politicians locked horns over the issue of tax reform.
blow one's own horn
to boast or brag about one's own accomplishments or abilities
Example
I don't mean to blow my own horn, but I think I did a pretty good job on that project.
take the bull by the horns
to confront a difficult situation with courage and determination
Example
I know the exam will be tough, but I'm ready to take the bull by the horns and study hard.

📌

Summary: horns in Brief

The term 'horns' [hɔːnz] refers to the hard, permanent outgrowths found on the heads of many animals, such as cattle and sheep. It can also refer to a musical instrument used to make a loud noise. The phrase 'lock horns' means to become involved in an argument, while 'take the bull by the horns' means to confront a difficult situation with courage.