C1verb3K

Hail

UK /["/heɪl/","/heɪlz/","/heɪld/","/ˈheɪlɪŋ/"]/US /["/heɪl/","/heɪlz/","/heɪld/","/ˈheɪlɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to describe somebody/something as being very good or special, especially in newspapers, etc.

In simple words: Small balls of ice that fall from the sky during some storms.

Examples

  • The conference was hailed as a great success.
  • The expedition was widely hailed as a success.
  • Teenager Matt Brown is being hailed a hero for saving a young child from drowning.
  • Union leaders hailed the socialists’ victory as a huge step forward.
  • to **hail a taxi/cab**
  • A voice hailed us from the other side of the street.
  • We soon came **within hailing distance of** *(= fairly close to)* the others.
  • It's hailing!

Usage notes

Use 'hail' when discussing weather conditions. It's not usually used in casual conversation unless weather is the topic. Avoid in formal writing unless it specifically relates to storms.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Hail sounds like 'fail' — imagine getting hit by ice and feeling like you've failed to stay dry.

Collocations

  • hail storm
  • hail damage
  • hail stones

Synonyms

  • ice pellets
  • frozen rain
  • sleet

Antonyms

  • sunshine
  • clear weather

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'hale' which means healthy.
  • Using 'hail' for rain, instead of ice balls.