How Do You Spell HOWLET?

Pronunciation: [hˈa͡ʊlət] (IPA)

The word "howlet" may seem unusual, but it actually has a clear spelling based on its origin. In Old English, the word for "owl" was "uhtcearu", which became "howlet" in Middle English. Its IPA transcription is /ˈhaʊlɪt/. The "ow" sound in "how" represents the diphthong /aʊ/, which is a combination of the vowel sounds /a/ and /ʊ/. The "let" ending is pronounced as /lɪt/, with the "e" being silent. Overall, the spelling of "howlet" reflects its historical roots in the English language.

HOWLET Meaning and Definition

1. Howlet is an archaic term referring to a small owl, specifically the tawny owl (Strix aluco). This word derives from Middle English "howlet" or "howlot," which is derived from the Old English "huhulet." It is believed that the word has roots in imitative or mimetic sounds that owls make.

   The howlet is a nocturnal bird of prey characterized by a compact and stocky body, rounded wings, and a short tail. It usually measures around 14-16 inches in length and 1-1.5 pounds in weight. Its soft plumage is mostly reddish-brown with dark markings, providing excellent camouflage in woodland environments. Active during the night, it flies silently in search of small mammals, birds, and invertebrates as its primary prey.

   Known for its distinct hoot sound, the howlet emits a rhythmic "hoohoo-hoohoo" call that can be heard during its courtship and territorial displays. Found throughout most of Europe, it inhabits forests, woodlands, and parks, often nesting in tree cavities or old buildings.

   The term "howlet" has also been used metaphorically to describe a person who is wise or knowledgeable, reflecting the owl's association with wisdom in various cultural and literary traditions. It can be used to signify someone who is astute, perceptive, or experienced, drawing upon the wise and watchful perception attributed to owls throughout history.

2. A bird of the owl kind.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HOWLET

• nowlet
• jowlet
• uowlet
• yowlet
• hiwlet
• hkwlet
• hlwlet
• hpwlet
• h0wlet
• h9wlet
• hoalet
• ho3let
• ho2let
• howpet
• howoet
• howlwt
• howlst
• howldt
• howlrt

Etymology of HOWLET

The word "howlet" has its origins in Middle English and Old English. It is derived from the Old English word "hūlet", which meant an owl. The word has been used to refer to owls in various European languages throughout history. The term "howlet" is still occasionally used in Scottish and northern English dialects to refer to an owl.

Plural form of HOWLET is HOWLETS