baying
|bay-ing|
/ˈbeɪ.ɪŋ/
(bay)
inlet or howl
Etymology
'baying' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'abayer' (also seen as 'abaiier'), where the prefix 'a-' appears with the root 'bayer' meaning 'to bark'.
'baying' changed from the Old French verb 'abayer' into Middle English forms such as 'baien'/'bayen', and eventually developed into modern English 'bay' with the present participle 'baying'.
Initially it meant 'to bark' (of dogs), but over time the usage extended figuratively to mean 'to shout or clamor loudly' (especially in a hostile or demanding way).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act or sound of baying; a prolonged, deep bark or howl.
The baying of the dogs echoed across the valley.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
(of a dog or pack of hounds) to bark or howl loudly and prolongedly, often when on the scent of prey or during a hunt.
The hounds were baying in the woods as the hunters rode on.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/01 13:41