Cluck

To make the low, guttural sound characteristic of a hen, especially when calling to her chicks. This sound is usually associated with contentment, nurturing, or a warning. It can also be used figuratively to describe a similar sound made by humans, often a soft, repetitive clicking of the tongue, used to express disapproval, concern, or encouragement.

The word's origins are imitative, reflecting the sound itself. Clucking is a form of vocal communication crucial for domestic fowl, conveying essential information to their offspring and other members of their flock.

This behavior provides a natural and instinctive way to communicate different feelings and scenarios that occur every day, thus strengthening bonds and allowing the young to recognize their parent.

Cluck meaning with examples

• The mother hen, seeing her chicks venture too far, clucked anxiously, her voice rising in pitch.
• As the farmer approached the coop, the hens began to cluck, a chorus of approval for their keeper.
• Sarah started to cluck nervously when her toddler wandered near the busy street.
• The old woman clucked with disapproval as she watched the children play so recklessly.