The word "howler" is spelled with a silent "w", which can be confusing for English learners. The IPA phonetic transcription for "howler" is /ˈhaʊlər/, which breaks down the pronunciation of the word into its individual sounds. The "h" sound at the beginning is followed by a long "ow" sound, represented by the symbol "aʊ". An "l" sound comes next, followed by an "uh" sound, represented by the symbol "ə". Finally, a rolled "r" sound completes the word, making it "howler".
Howler is a noun that refers to a person or thing that makes a loud, prolonged, and often unpleasant noise. It can also describe a glaring or embarrassing mistake or blunder. Additionally, it is used to describe certain types of monkeys.
When referring to a person or thing, a howler typically emits a loud and harsh sound that can be bothersome and irritating to the ears. This can include loud and prolonged screams, wails, or cries that are often associated with distress or anger. For instance, during a thunderstorm, the wind can become a howler, creating a loud and disruptive noise that resonates through the surroundings.
In addition, howler can also describe a glaring mistake or blunder made by a person. This usage often highlights the magnitude of the error or the hilarity of the situation. It is typically associated with an embarrassing mistake that is very obvious or easily noticeable. For example, if someone were to mispronounce a commonly known word during a public speech, it would be considered a howler.
Lastly, "howler" is also used as a term to describe certain species of monkeys found in Central and South America. These monkeys are known for their vocalization, which is characterized by loud, long-distance calls that can be heard over several kilometers. Such calls are used to establish territory, communicate with other members of the group, or warn against potential threats.
The word "howler" originated in the 18th century and has been derived from the verb "howl". The term "howl" itself can be traced back to Old English "hulian", which refers to the act of making a loud, sustained, and mournful cry. Over time, "howl" came to be associated with various sounds resembling loud cries or wailing, including those made by animals in distress or humans expressing pain or grief.
The noun form, "howler", first appeared to describe a person or animal that howls. However, by the early 19th century, "howler" took on additional connotations. It began to be used to describe someone who makes a glaringly obvious mistake, causing others to laugh or criticize.