howler

noun

howl·​er ˈhau̇-lər 

1

a

: howler monkey

b

: one that howls

2

: a humorous and ridiculous blunder

Examples of howler in a Sentence

The article was full of howlers.

Recent Examples on the Web

Many of the Round of 16 matches have been tight, and a defensive blunder or a goalkeeper howler could change the course of a game. — Michael Lewis, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

With a goalkeeping howler and a red card, Marcelo Bielsa’s side self-imploded at the end of a bitterly disappointing tournament. — Tim Spiers, New York Times, 3 July 2026

Expect to see monkeys (both howler and white-faced), koatis, and perhaps even a leopard. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 June 2026

And even if credible veracity comes and goes, Lindsay-Abaire mines them for plenty of laughs, including a couple of total howlers. — Chris Jones, New York Daily News, 22 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1800, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing howler

• howler monkey

Rhymes for howler

• couleur
• prowler

Kids Definition

howler

noun

howl·​er ˈhau̇-lər 

1

: one that howls

2

: a stupid and ridiculous blunder