Pronunciation: [hˈɔːkt] (IPA) 
The word "Hawked" is spelled with a silent "w" sound, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The IPA transcription for "Hawked" is /hɔkt/. The "h" at the beginning of the word is pronounced with a strong exhale of air from the throat. The "o" is pronounced with an open mouth, and the "k" sound is made with a quick release of air from the back of the throat. The "e" at the end of the word is silent.
Hawked is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "hawk." The word "hawk," in its various contexts, has multiple meanings and uses that define its dictionary definition.
When used as a transitive verb, "hawk" refers to the action of advertising or offering goods or services for sale in a persistent and aggressive manner. It denotes the act of promoting or peddling items by repetitively calling out, shouting, or displaying them, usually in a public place, to attract potential customers. For instance, a street vendor might hawk their merchandise by loudly announcing its features and prices to passersby.
In another sense, "hawk" can mean to clear one's throat loudly and forcefully as a sound or action made by humans or birds. This definition portrays the act of making a sharp, distinct noise from the throat to expel mucus or other obstructions, often preceding speech or as a symptom of a respiratory condition.
Lastly, "hawk" can also be used as a noun representing a diurnal bird of prey characterized by its hooked beak, keen eyesight, and sharp talons. Hawks are known for their ability to soar and swoop swiftly, capturing prey with precision and agility.
Overall, "hawked" as the past tense of "hawk" refers to the act of aggressively advertising or promoting products, the forceful clearing of one's throat, or the action of soaring and hunting characteristic of hawks.
Crooked or curved, like a hawk's bill.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word hawked comes from the Middle English word hauken, which was derived from the Old English word hafocian. The Old English word hafoc means hawk, and the suffix -ian denotes the verbal action. Over time, hafocian evolved into hauken in Middle English, and eventually, it transformed into the modern form hawked.
