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Chirp: meaning, definitions and examples

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chirp

 

[tʃɜːrp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

bird sound

To make a short, high-pitched sound, like a bird.

Synonyms

cheep, peep, tweet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chirp

Used to describe the short, sharp sound made by small birds or insects like crickets. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone speaking in a lively or cheerful tone.

  • The birds began to chirp happily at sunrise.
  • Jane was chirping away excitedly about her new job.
tweet

Refers to the short, high-pitched sound made by birds, often used in a modern sense to describe a post made on the social media platform Twitter. In the bird context, it's a lighter and shorter sound.

  • The canary twitters delightfully in its cage.
  • She posted a tweet about her recent travels.
cheep

Commonly used to describe the soft, high-pitched sound made by young birds, especially chicks. It refers to a quieter, more delicate sound compared to 'chirp'.

  • The newly hatched chicks began to cheep for their mother.
  • We could hear the gentle cheep of a sparrow outside the window.
peep

Used for short, soft sounds made by young birds or animals. It's also used to describe a sound someone makes when talking in a very quiet or soft voice.

  • The baby birds were just beginning to peep from their nest.
  • He didn't make a peep during the entire movie.

Examples of usage

  • The birds chirped happily in the trees.
  • I woke up to the sound of chirping birds.
Context #2 | Noun

bird sound

A short, high-pitched sound made by a bird.

Synonyms

cheep, peep, tweet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
chirp

Usually describes the short, high-pitched notes of small birds or insects. It often conveys a happy or lively connotation.

  • The birds chirped happily in the morning
  • The crickets chirped noisily in the warm night
tweet

Commonly used for the short, high-pitched sounds made by small birds. In modern usage, it also refers to messages or posts on the social media platform Twitter.

  • The sparrows were tweeting in the garden
  • She posted a funny tweet about her cat
cheep

Specifically used for the soft, high-pitched sounds made by young birds, especially chicks.

  • The baby chicks cheeped as they followed their mother around
  • I heard a soft cheep from the nest
peep

Describes a very soft or faint sound made by small birds or animals. Also can be used figuratively to describe a small, timid sound made by a person.

  • I could hear the tiny peep of a mouse
  • The little boy let out a quiet peep

Examples of usage

  • The chirp of the sparrows filled the garden.
  • I heard the chirp of a robin outside my window.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from Middle English 'chirpen,' influenced by the Old English 'cierpan,' meaning to make a noise.
  • The sound described by this term mimics the actual noise made by tiny creatures, showcasing an example of onomatopoeia.
  • Its usage dates back to the 15th century, reflecting nature's influence on language.

Science

  • Birds use chirping to communicate, establishing territory, attracting mates, or signaling alarm to their flock.
  • Different species have unique chirps used for various situations, demonstrating a vast array of languages within the animal kingdom.
  • Some insects, like crickets, also produce chirps, creating a symphony during warm evenings and signifying environmental changes.

Pop Culture

  • Chirping has been integrated into various songs and cartoons, often depicting playful and joyful scenes.
  • In tech, 'chirp' inspired sound notifications on platforms like Twitter, where messages appear to 'chirp' as they arrive.
  • Animated movies frequently use chirping from various creatures to bring life and whimsy to storytelling.

Literature

  • Nature poetry often uses the sound of chirping as a metaphor for happiness and freedom, reflecting how it fits into the natural world.
  • Famous authors like Emily Dickinson have beautifully integrated the sound of chirping to convey deeper emotions and connections with nature.
  • Children’s literature frequently features chirping animals, helping to teach young readers about their environments.

Psychology

  • Listening to bird chirps can improve mood and reduce stress, showcasing the psychological effects of nature sounds on humans.
  • Research indicates chirping sounds can enhance concentration, particularly in green spaces or during outdoor activities.
  • Chirping is often associated with positive memories, creating a deeper connection with outdoor experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "chirp" in other languages:

🇵🇹 piar

🇮🇳 चहचहाना

🇩🇪 zwitschern

🇮🇩 berkicau

🇺🇦 щебетати

🇵🇱 ćwierkać

🇯🇵 さえずる (saezuru)

🇫🇷 pépier

🇪🇸 piar

🇹🇷 cıvıldamak

🇰🇷 짹짹거리다 (jjaekjjaekgeorida)

🇸🇦 زقزقة (zaqzaqa)

🇨🇿 cvrlikat

🇸🇰 štebotať

🇨🇳 唧唧喳喳 (jījīzhāzhā)

🇸🇮 čivkati

🇮🇸 kvaka

🇰🇿 шиқылдау

🇬🇪 ჭიკჭიკი (ch'ik'ch'iki)

🇦🇿 cücüləmək

🇲🇽 piar

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,401, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.