Cluck: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'cluck' to describe the sound that chickens make, especially hens. It can be used both literally and metaphorically when describing a person making similar sounds.

• The hens began to cluck loudly when they saw the farmer coming.
• She clucked in disapproval at the messy room.

'Chirp' is typically used to describe the short, high-pitched sounds made by small birds or insects. It is often used to convey a sense of cheerfulness or activity.

• The birds began to chirp as the sun rose.
• She woke up to the sound of crickets chirping outside her window.

The word 'cackle' often describes a harsh, loud laugh or sound made by birds such as hens or geese. When referring to laughter, it usually has a negative connotation, suggesting an unpleasant or sinister laugh.

• The old witch cackled as she stirred her potion.
• You could hear the geese cackling from a distance.

'Chatter' is used to describe fast, continuous talking by people, or the noises made by animals like birds or monkeys. For people, it often implies talking about unimportant subjects.

• The kids were chattering excitedly about their weekend plans.
• You could hear the monkeys chattering in the trees.

Used primarily to describe the sound made by chickens. It can also metaphorically describe someone expressing mild disapproval or concern.

• The hens clucked softly as they wandered around the coop.
• She clucked her tongue in disapproval at his messy room.

Used to describe the short, high-pitched sounds made by small birds or insects. It can also describe someone speaking in a cheerful, light-hearted manner.

• The sparrows chirped happily in the early morning light.
• She chirped a friendly greeting as she walked into the room.

Used to describe a loud, harsh, and usually unpleasant laugh, often associated with witches or evil characters. It can also describe the sound that certain birds, like geese, make.

• The witch cackled menacingly as the hero entered the room.
• The geese cackled loudly as they fought over food.

Used to describe rapid, continuous talking, often in a light or casual way. It can also describe the sound made by animals such as monkeys or birds.

• The children chattered excitedly about their holiday plans.
• Monkeys chattered noisily in the treetops.