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Caterwaul Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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caterwaul

[ˈkætərˌwɔl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

making noise

To caterwaul means to make a loud, shrill, and often unpleasant noise, resembling the cries of a cat. This term is often used to describe the piercing or wailing sounds of cats, especially during mating season. It can also refer to any similar loud and discordant noise made by other animals or humans. The term suggests a sense of distress or discomfort in the sound being made.

Synonyms

howl, scream, wail, yowl.

Examples of usage

  • The cats caterwauled all night, keeping everyone awake.
  • During the argument, they caterwaul at each other loudly.
  • The wind created a caterwauling sound through the trees.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, it often depicts chaos or conflict, reflecting intense emotions during arguments or fights.
  • Famous poets like T.S. Eliot used the word to evoke emotional states and vividly illustrate scenes in their works.
  • In some narratives, characters caterwaul to symbolize their struggles or turmoil, adding depth to storytelling.

Pop Culture

  • The term is often used in songs and theatrical works to depict drama or conflict, enhancing the emotional landscape.
  • Movies that feature strong emotional confrontations, like animated films, often have characters caterwauling to express distress or fighting.
  • In social discussions, people may describe someone who complains loudly or fights over trivial matters as 'caterwauling' to humorously convey annoyance.

Psychology

  • Caterwauling can symbolize heightened emotional states, such as stress or fear, indicating underlying feelings needing attention.
  • The behavior mimics the sounds of certain animals expressing alarm, suggesting a deep-rooted instinctual response to stressors.
  • Understanding this behavior can help in building communication strategies for resolving conflicts more peacefully.

Origin of 'caterwaul'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the combination of 'cater' (to howl or cry) and 'waul' (to cry out), showcasing its vocal nature.
  • It has roots in the Middle English word 'caterwawl,' indicating how long the term has been in use to describe such sounds.
  • The word is often associated with both animal behavior and human expressions of intense emotion.

The word 'caterwaul' has its origins in the late 16th century and is a combination of the word 'cater', which may come from the Middle English word 'cater', meaning to make a noise or cry out, and 'waul', a variation of 'wail'. The term initially described the vocalizations of cats, reflecting their distinctive and loud cries, particularly during mating. Over time, 'caterwaul' evolved to encompass any loud, discordant, or shrill noise made by both humans and animals. The vivid imagery of the term reflects its roots, linking it to the world of felines and their often raucous interactions. Its usage has expanded into a more general sense of loud complaints or outbursts in social or emotional contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,149, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.