Pronunciation: [kˈaklɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "Cackling" is spelled with a "ck" instead of just a "k" because it comes after a short vowel sound. The "ck" spelling denotes a consonant digraph that represents a single sound /k/. The word is pronounced as /ˈkæk.lɪŋ/ according to IPA phonetic transcription. It means a loud, unpleasant, and prolonged laugh, typically from someone who is amused by their own jokes. It is often associated with the sound made by hens.
Cackling refers to the loud and shrill laughter produced by humans or certain animals, typically characterized by a series of high-pitched and rapid sounds. The term is commonly associated with a sound resembling the letter "k" repeated in quick succession, often sounding harsh or raucous.
Primarily used as a verb, cackling denotes the act of emitting or producing this distinctive laughter. It typically signifies amusement, usually with a touch of derision or scorn. The term is often utilized to describe laughter that is loud, unpleasant, or mocking in nature. Cackling can also connote the expression of intense or exaggerated excitement or joy through laughter, often associated with uncontrollable fits of giggles or chuckling.
Cackling can be observed in various contexts, including social gatherings, comedic performances, or even in response to a humorous situation. It may convey the sense of intense humor or mirth, sometimes even causing others to join in the laughter. Additionally, cackling can also be used metaphorically to describe sounds that are reminiscent of this laughter, such as the high-pitched and rapid noise produced by certain birds or other animals.
Overall, cackling encompasses a distinct form of laughter that is characterized by its loudness, rapidity, and often mocking or excited nature.
The noise of a hen or goose.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "cackling" originates from the Middle English word "cakelen", which derives from the Old Norse word "kakala" or "kaka", meaning "to chatter" or "to cackle". The Old Norse word likely influenced the Middle English term. The onomatopoeic nature of the word "cackling" represents the sound made by a person or animal when laughing or speaking in a shrill and high-pitched manner.
