# bray

/ˈbɹeɪ/ (US) · /bɹˈeɪ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bray
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

to make a loud, harsh sound like a donkey. You use this word when someone laughs or shouts in a way that sounds rough and unpleasant.

For teachers: to produce a loud, harsh, and typically prolonged vocal sound, characteristic of a donkey or mule. Often used figuratively to describe a grating human laugh or shout.

## Examples

- The donkey began to bray at the passing car.
- He tried to speak, but his nervous laughter turned into a loud bray that silenced the room.
- The politician's speech was met not with applause, but with a collective bray of derision from the opposition benches, echoing off the stone walls of the chamber.

## Usage notes

- The verb is intransitive and does not take a direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.