/howl/ , v.i.
1. to utter a loud, prolonged, mournful cry, as that of a dog or wolf.
2. to utter a similar cry in distress, pain, rage, etc.; wail.
3. to make a sound like an animal howling: The wind howls through the trees.
4. Informal. to go on a spree; enjoy oneself without restraint.
v.t.
5. to utter with howls: to howl the bad news.
6. to drive or force by howls (often fol. by down ): to howl down the opposition.
n.
7. the cry of a dog, wolf, etc.
8. a cry or wail, as of pain, rage, or protest.
9. a sound like wailing: the howl of the wind.
10. a loud, scornful laugh or yell.
11. something that causes a laugh or a scornful yell, as a joke or funny or embarrassing situation.
[ 1300-50; ME hulen, houlen (v.); c. D huilen, LG hülen, G heulen, Dan hyle; akin to ON yla ]