Bleat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bleat

[bliหt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

animal sound

To bleat is to make the characteristic sound of a sheep or goat, typically a series of short, high-pitched calls. This vocalization is often used by the animals to express a variety of emotions, including hunger, distress, or the desire for attention. The sound can carry over long distances, allowing them to communicate with one another in the open pastures. Additionally, 'bleat' can also be used metaphorically to describe a person complaining or whining in a similar high-pitched manner.

Synonyms

baa, complain, whine.

Examples of usage

  • The sheep began to bleat as they were herded towards the barn.
  • She could hear the goats bleating in the distance.
  • His constant bleating about the unfair rules frustrated everyone.

Translations

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Origin of 'bleat'

The word 'bleat' originates from Middle English 'bleten' and Old English 'blฤ“atan', which itself is derived from a Proto-Germanic root '*blฤ“tanฤ…', meaning 'to bleat'. This etymology connects it to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as 'blรถken' in German and 'blatte' in Scandinavian languages, all of which describe the sound made by sheep. The early use of 'bleat' was primarily focused on the vocal sounds of sheep and goats, reflecting humans' agricultural relationships with these animals. Over time, the definition expanded to include similar whining or complaining sounds made by humans, illustrating a linguistic evolution from a specific animal sound to a broader metaphorical application in speech. The consistent association with complaint reflects cultural perceptions of both the animals and human behaviors. As agriculture developed, the term 'bleat' became more ingrained in the language, symbolizing not only the sound but also the characteristics of sheep as domesticated animals.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,549 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.