A biweekly feature about little things.
A klaxon is an old-timey car horn. It used to be a trademark, i.e. Klaxon, but now it’s in general use. Klaxon isn’t a common word, but the sound effect is common enough to merit discussion.
E.g., “Did you hear that klaxon?” “What are you talking about?” “The horn. Did you hear the horn?” “Why didn’t you just call it a horn?” “I read a thing online.” “You fool, don’t you realize they use klaxons on submarines to signal a dive.” “Yeah, so?” “Quick, get below deck!”
Instead of using the word “klaxon,” most people just make the horn sound. There are no rules for onomatopoeia, but the most common form I’ve seen is “awoogah.”
This also doubles as an old-timey cat call.