Barking: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the sound that dogs make, especially when they are excited, scared or warning of danger.

• The dog was barking loudly at the stranger
• / She heard dogs barking in the distance

Describes a long, loud sound made by dogs or wolves, often when they are lonely, sad, or communicating over long distances.

• Wolves could be heard howling in the night
• / The dog was howling because it missed its owner

Used to describe the short, high-pitched barks of small dogs. Often implies annoyance or incessant noise.

• The little dog wouldn't stop yapping at the guests
• / She found the yapping of the neighbor's dog very irritating

Refers to a low, rumbling noise that dogs or other animals make when they are angry, threatened, or warning others.

• The dog started growling as the man approached
• / A growling dog can be very intimidating

Similar to 'bark,' this term focuses on the ongoing or repetitive action of barking. Often used when talking about the noise level or frequency.

• The constant barking of the neighbor's dog kept me awake all night
• She couldn't concentrate because of the barking outside

Refers to a high-pitched, sharp bark made by small dogs. Often has a slightly negative connotation, implying that the noise is annoying or incessant.

• The little dog wouldn't stop yapping at the mailman
• Her yappy dog drove the neighbors crazy

Used to describe a low, guttural sound made by dogs or other animals when they are angry or threatened. This word often carries a sense of warning or aggression.

• The dog growled at the stranger approaching the house
• The cat growled softly, warning the other animals to stay away

Describes a long, mournful sound made by dogs, wolves, or other canines. Often associated with pain, sorrow, or communication over long distances.

• The wolf howled at the moon
• The dog howled in pain after stepping on a sharp object