Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Beep Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔊
Add to dictionary

beep

[biːp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

electronic devices

To make a short, high-pitched sound, typically as a signal or to attract attention.

Synonyms

alert, signal, sound.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
beep

Commonly used to describe a short, high-pitched sound made by electronic devices, such as a car horn, microwave, or computer.

  • The microwave beeped when the popcorn was ready
  • I heard a beep from my phone
sound

A general term for anything that can be heard. It is used broadly and can describe any type of noise, music, or spoken word.

  • The sound of waves crashing on the shore was soothing
  • She heard a strange sound coming from the attic
signal

Refers to a gesture, sound, or action used to convey information or instructions. It is often used in communication or transportation contexts.

  • The traffic light turned green, signaling it was safe to go
  • He gave me a hand signal to indicate a stop
alert

Used when notifying someone about potential danger or important information. Can also be used to describe a state of being watchful or vigilant.

  • The weather service issued an alert for a severe storm
  • She remained alert throughout the night

Examples of usage

  • The microwave beeped to let me know my food was ready.
  • The alarm clock beeped loudly, waking me up.
  • The computer beeped to indicate an error.
Context #2 | Noun

electronic devices

A short, high-pitched sound made by electronic devices as a signal or to attract attention.

Synonyms

alert, signal, sound.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
beep

A repetition of a high-pitched sound (perhaps an accidental repeat in this list)

  • The clock beeped every hour
  • The car horn beeped to warn of the pedestrian
sound

An all-encompassing term that refers to any auditory sensation, not necessarily tied to a specific context or electronic device.

  • The sound of waves crashing was very relaxing
  • There was a strange sound coming from the engine
signal

A broader term that can refer to any form of communication or alert, usually transmitted over a distance, and can include both visual and auditory elements.

  • The traffic light turned green, giving the signal to go
  • The soldier sent a signal to his team using hand gestures
alert

Refers to a notification or warning designed to grab immediate attention, often used in safety or emergency situations.

  • The weather service issued an alert about the approaching storm
  • His computer showed an alert when the battery was low

Examples of usage

  • I heard a beep coming from the car, signaling that the door was open.
  • The beep of the phone alerted me to a new message.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Beeping sounds are commonly used in devices like alarms and notifications to alert users.
  • The 'beep' of a computer speaker can indicate errors or confirm actions in programming.

Pop Culture

  • In cartoons, characters often make exaggerated 'beep' sounds for comedic effect.
  • In video games, beeping sounds can signify health points or levels changing.

Psychology

  • 'Beep' sounds can create a sense of urgency or importance in communication.
  • Research shows that repetitive sounds can enhance memory retention during learning.

Literature

  • Beeping has been used as a motif in literature to signify modernity and the intrusion of technology in daily life.
  • Authors often use the sound of beeping to signify alarm or alertness, reflecting the tension in a scene.

Origin of 'beep'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'beep' likely originated in the 1920s, imitating the sound it represents.
  • It is considered an onomatopoeia, which means it sounds like what it describes.

The word 'beep' originated as an onomatopoeic term, imitating the sound that electronic devices make. It first appeared in the mid-20th century with the rise of technology and has since become widely used in everyday language to describe short, high-pitched sounds. The simplicity and universality of the term have contributed to its enduring popularity.

See also: be, bead, being, by.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,120, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.