hurl

[hurl]

verb (used with object)

1. to throw or fling with great force or vigor.

   Synonyms: pitch, cast

2. to throw or cast down.

3. to utter with vehemence.

   to hurl insults at the umpire.

verb (used without object)

1. to throw a missile.

2. Baseball.,  to pitch a ball.

noun

1. a forcible or violent throw; fling.

hurl

/ hɜːl /

verb

1. (tr) to throw or propel with great force

2. (tr) to utter with force; yell

   to hurl insults

3. to transport or be transported in a driven vehicle

noun

1. the act or an instance of hurling

2. a ride in a driven vehicle

Other Word Forms

• hurler noun
• outhurl verb (used with object)
• unhurled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hurl¹

1175–1225; Middle English hurlen, equivalent to hur- (perhaps akin to hurry ) + -len -le; akin to Low German hurreln to toss, Frisian hurreln to roar (said of the wind), dialectal German hurlen to roll, rumble (said of thunder)

Word History and Origins

Origin of hurl¹

C13: probably of imitative origin

Example Sentences

It was she who often led the charge against the succession of Conservatives who got into trouble over their own complicated financial arrangements, hurling accusations of arrogance and greed on a fairly regular basis.

From BBC

Democrats had their turn with Kennedy, as well, and took the opportunity to hurl insults and accuse Kennedy of gross incompetence.

From Salon

The Grammy-winning rapper was seen on camera hurling a pen at the man in the press pool as she left an Alhambra courthouse during the lunch break of her civil assault trial.

From Los Angeles Times

Even in a moment of respite, when Roman takes Hank to a late-night diner for her favorite black and white cookie, the director has instructed the server to hurl the plate at her dismissively.

From Los Angeles Times

Ms Ellis claims the rapper accused her of trying to spread news about her being at the doctor's office, then hurled insults and threats, and attacked her.

From BBC

Related Words

• fire 
• fling 
• heave 
• lob 
• sling