haw
word
Definition
'Haw' is a command given to animals, especially oxen or horses, telling them to turn left. It can also mean hesitating or pausing while speaking.
Usage & Nuances
Very rare outside of rural, farming, or historical contexts. When used to describe speech ('hem and haw'), it means to hesitate or be indecisive. Most common as part of the phrase 'hem and haw'. Never used for people turning, only for animals or figuratively for indecision.
Example Sentences
The farmer shouted 'haw' to make the ox turn left.
basic
When you say 'haw', the horse knows to go left.
basic
Old wagons used 'haw' and 'gee' to guide their teams.
basic
He started to 'haw' and couldn't decide what to say next.
natural
People often hem and haw before answering difficult questions.
natural
Instead of making a choice, he just kept on trying to hem and haw his way out of it.
natural