fog-horn

A ship sounds its fog-horn in the thick mist.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A horn used as a warning signal in fog: "fog-horn" refers to a powerful horn or siren, typically on ships or at lighthouses, that emits a loud, low-pitched sound to warn vessels of obstacles or hazardous conditions during foggy weather.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The captain sounded the fog-horn repeatedly as the ship approached the narrow channel. (The horn was used to alert other boats in the fog.)
  • In dense fog, the lighthouse's fog-horn could be heard for miles, guiding sailors safely to shore. (The horn served as an audible warning signal.)

Advanced Usage

• "to sound like a fog-horn": used metaphorically to describe a very loud, deep, or grating voice or sound.
  • His laugh was so loud and deep that it sounded like a fog-horn in the quiet room. (His laugh was extremely loud and resonant.)
• "fog-horn voice": a colloquial expression for a voice that is harsh, booming, or unpleasant.
  • The actor's fog-horn voice was perfect for playing the gruff old sea captain. (His voice was deep and booming.)

Variants and Related Words

• Fog (n): a thick cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere, reducing visibility.
  • The fog was so thick that we could barely see ten feet ahead. (Reduced visibility due to fog.)
• Horn (n): a device that produces a loud sound, often used as a signal.
  • The car's horn blared to warn the pedestrian. (The sound device on a vehicle.)

Synonyms

• Siren: a device that makes a loud, wailing sound, often used for warnings.
  • The fog siren was activated during the storm. (A warning sound device.)
• Signal horn: a horn used to convey a warning or message.
  • The ship's signal horn echoed across the bay. (A horn for communication.)

Related Idioms

• "blow one's own fog-horn": an informal, rare idiom meaning to boast or brag loudly.
  • He's always blowing his own fog-horn about his achievements at work. (He constantly boasts about himself.)
• "fog-horn diplomacy": a humorous term for aggressive or very loud negotiation tactics.
  • The ambassador's fog-horn diplomacy did little to ease tensions between the two countries. (Loud, forceful diplomatic approach.)