Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
hackles
noun
/ˈhakəlz/
Definition
The long feathers along the neck of a bird or the hair along the back of an animal, especially when raised.
Examples
- The dog’s hackles rose as the stranger approached.
- When the cat spotted the dog, its hackles went up in defense.
Meaning
Hackles refer to the long hair or feathers on certain animals or birds that can be raised, usually when they are excited or threatened.
Synonyms
- bristles
- spines
- feathers
