klaxon
UK[ˈklæksən]US[ˈklæksən]
n
a loud electric horn or warning signal.
Etymology
the word 'klaxon' is a proprietary name that entered the language as a trademark. it originates from the greek verb 'klazō' (κλάζω), meaning 'to shriek' or 'to make a loud, sharp sound.' the american klaxon company adopted this name in the early 20th century for its distinctive motor vehicle horns. the term successfully transitioned from a specific brand name into a generic term for any loud, harsh warning signal, illustrating a common process where a trademark's descriptive power leads to its lexicalization.
Analysis
this word is a simplex loanword. it does not contain separable morphemes within its modern english spelling.
Examples
the sudden blare of the ship's klaxon alerted the crew to the emergency.
old cars were often fitted with a mechanical klaxon operated by a rubber bulb.
the factory uses a klaxon to signal the start and end of shifts.