hoar

1 of 2

adjective

ˈhȯr How to pronounce hoar (audio)
Synonyms of hoarnext
: hoary

hoar

2 of 2

noun

: frost sense 1b

Synonyms

Adjective

Noun

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Examples of hoar in a Sentence

Adjective the hoar and crumbling stones of ruined temples Noun the hoar-covered meadow gleamed in the early-morning sun
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
During cold weather the moisture precipitates out of the air onto every branch and willow bush, coating them in a layer of hoar frost. — Seth Adams, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English hor, from Old English hār; akin to Old High German hēr hoary

Noun

Middle English hor hoariness, from hor, adjective

First Known Use

Adjective

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1567, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hoar was before the 12th century

Rhymes for hoar

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Browse Nearby Words

hoar
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Cite this Entry

“Hoar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hoar. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

hoar

1 of 2 adjective
ˈhō(ə)r How to pronounce hoar (audio)
ˈhȯ(ə)r
: hoary

hoar

2 of 2 noun
: frost entry 1 sense 2
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