hoicks

A rider shouts "Hoicks!" to encourage the hounds.

Definition

1. Interjection:
   • A command to urge hounds: "hoicks" is an interjection used by hunters to call or encourage hounds, especially foxhounds, to move forward or pay attention. It functions as a shout or cry, similar to "hark" or "yoicks."

Usage Examples

• (A command to urge the hounds onward.)
• (An interjection to direct the dogs' attention.)

Advanced Usage

• "To hoicks" (verb, rare): In some contexts, "hoicks" can be used as a verb meaning to urge or drive hounds.
  • He hoicksed the hounds into the thicket. (He urged them forward with a shout.)

Variants and Related Words

• Yoicks (interjection): A similar hunting cry, used interchangeably with "hoicks."

  • "Yoicks! Tally-ho!" the rider shouted. (A traditional hunting call.)

• Holloa (interjection): Another hunting call, used to signal a sighting or to encourage hounds.

  • The huntsman gave a loud holloa as the fox appeared. (A cry to alert the pack.)

Synonyms

• Hark: a cry to call attention, especially in hunting.
• Away: a command for hounds to start or move forward.

Related Idioms

• "Cry hoicks": an old-fashioned phrase meaning to give a signal or make a sudden exclamation.
  • The old hunter would cry hoicks whenever the scent was fresh. (He would shout to encourage the dogs.)