hailing

word · lemma: hail

Definition

Hailing means that small balls of ice (hail) are falling from the sky during a storm. It can also mean calling or signaling for someone, especially to get their attention or to ask a taxi to stop.

Usage & Nuances

Commonly used for weather reports ('It's hailing outside'), and for getting someone's attention ('hailing a cab'). As a verb, 'hail' can mean both 'fall as hail' and 'to signal'. Don't confuse with 'hail from' (meaning someone's origin).

Example Sentences

He was hailing a taxi on the street.

basic

It's hailing outside, so take an umbrella.

basic

We saw children hailing their friends across the playground.

basic

It suddenly started hailing, and we had to run for cover.

natural

She was hailing a cab when it started to rain.

natural

People were hailing each other from across the busy street, trying to meet up.

natural