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Caterwauled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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caterwauled

[ˈkætərˌwɔːld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

animal sound

Caterwauled refers to the loud, mournful cry or howl made by a cat or a similar animal. This term often describes a distinct and piercing noise that can be quite unsettling, especially during the night. It can also imply a sense of distress or discomfort, often related to mating calls or territorial disputes among cats. In a broader sense, it can describe any loud or raucous noise made by people or animals.

Synonyms

howled, screeched, yowled.

Examples of usage

  • The cats caterwauled throughout the night.
  • Their argument escalated as they caterwauled at each other.
  • She could hear the tomcat caterwauling outside her window.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Famous authors such as William Shakespeare have employed the term to convey intense emotions in their works.
  • In modern fiction, a character's caterwauling can symbolize their distress or a significant turning point in the story.

Psychology

  • Caterwauling can reflect deep emotional states, often signaling a need for help or an expression of frustration.
  • People may caterwaul as a way to release pent-up emotions, resembling primal forms of communication seen in both humans and animals.

Pop Culture

  • The term has appeared in song lyrics, symbolizing unrestrained emotional outbursts or dramatic situations.
  • In various animated movies, characters often caterwaul to emphasize comedic or overwhelming moments.

Animal Behavior

  • Cats often caterwaul when they are in heat or feeling threatened, showcasing clear communication in the animal kingdom.
  • This sound serves as a warning to other animals or as a call to mate, highlighting its significance in feline communication.

Origin of 'caterwauled'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'caterwaul' comes from the Middle English word 'caterwawen', which describes the cry of a cat.
  • The 'cat' part of the word highlights its connection to the sound made by feline creatures.
  • It was first recorded in English texts around the 14th century, showcasing how long this expression has been in use.

The word 'caterwaul' originates from the late 15th century, possibly combining 'cater' (to cry out) and 'waul' (to wail), both of which are onomatopoeic in nature, mimicking the sounds made by cats. The earliest use of the term describes the wailing sounds made by domestic cats, particularly during mating season. The term gradually evolved to encompass both the sounds made by felines and any loud, raucous noise similar to that, leading to its broader usage in contemporary English. The word can also connote a sense of agitation, signifying not just sound but disorderly behavior related to such vocalizations. Over time, this term has made its way into various dialects and has been featured in various literary works to convey a sense of chaos or unease.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,161, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.