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hackles

The correct spelling is hackles.

How to pronounce hackles

noun

IPA: /ˈhækəlz/

Say it like: Hak-les

The correct spelling is hackles. An instrument with steel pins used to comb out flax or hemp. For example: "When the dog got angry, his hackles rose and he growled."

Usage Examples

When the dog got angry, his hackles rose and he growled.

Definition

noun

  1. 1.An instrument with steel pins used to comb out flax or hemp.
  2. 2.(usually now in the plural) One of the long, narrow feathers on the neck of birds, most noticeable on the rooster.
  3. 3.A feather used to make a fishing lure or a fishing lure incorporating a feather.
  4. 4.(usually now in the plural) By extension (because the hackles of a rooster are lifted when it is angry), the hair on the nape of the neck in dogs and other animals; also used figuratively for humans.
  5. 5.A plate with rows of pointed needles used to blend or straighten hair.

Similar words

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