bray

Bray is the loud, harsh cry of a donkey (an ass) and, more broadly, any similar donkey-like vocalization. The sound is typically described as a sustained, coarse call that can carry over long distances in open terrain. While most commonly associated with donkeys, bray can also be produced by related animals such as mules.

As a verb, to bray means to utter such a cry or, metaphorically, to laugh in a loud, coarse, or boisterous manner. The term is used in both zoological description and in everyday speech to convey a forceful, abrasive sound or reaction. The word’s usage spans literal animal sounds and figurative expressions of loudness or mockery.

Pronunciation is generally given as /breɪ/. The exact origin of the word is uncertain, but bray has long appeared in English, used to describe the characteristic sound and, by extension, other loud, harsh expressions.

Bray is also a place name and surname. As a toponym, there are several towns and localities named Bray in English-speaking countries, notably Bray in Ireland and Bray in England. The term thus operates both as a common noun and as a proper noun in geographic and genealogical contexts.