Noun
/klaɣˈson/
The word “claxon” refers to the device in a vehicle that produces a loud sound to alert others, commonly known as a car horn. It can also be used to describe the act of honking. In Spanish, it typically appears in both oral and written contexts, with a fairly high frequency of use, particularly in discussions surrounding vehicles, traffic, or safety.
The car horn blared loudly at the intersection.
No olvides usar el claxon si alguien te corta el paso.
Don't forget to use the horn if someone cuts you off.
El claxon del autobús avisó que estaba a punto de salir.
While “claxon” itself may not be part of many idiomatic expressions, it can be associated with a few phrases that convey urgency or alerts in various contexts. Here are a couple of examples:
When traffic is slow, sometimes we can only honk the horn to vent our frustration.
Sonar el claxon.
Whenever he sees a cyclist, he sounds the horn so they know he is near.
Un claxon a tiempo, salva vidas.
The term "claxon" originates from the late 19th century, deriving from the brand name "Klaxon," which was associated with an early horn used in automobiles and other vehicles. Its usage in the Spanish language has been adapted to represent the general concept of a car horn.
Synonyms: - Bocina (horn) - Sirena (siren)
Antonyms: - Silencio (silence)
In summary, “claxon” is a widely used term in the Spanish language that primarily refers to a vehicle horn, conveying both meaning and utility in everyday contexts. Its incorporation into expressions highlights its significance in conveying alerts and emotions related to driving experiences.