hackles
Pronunciation:
/ˈhækəlz/noun
Definitions
An instrument with steel pins used to comb out flax or hemp.
Synonyms:hatchelheckle(usually now in the plural) One of the long, narrow feathers on the neck of birds, most noticeable on the rooster.
A feather used to make a fishing lure or a fishing lure incorporating a feather.
(usually now in the plural) By extension (because the hackles of a rooster are lifted when it is angry), the hair on the nape of the neck in dogs and other animals; also used figuratively for humans.
Example: When the dog got angry, his hackles rose and he growled.