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Creak Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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creak

[kriหk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

sound

To make a sharp, harsh, grating, or squeaking sound.

Synonyms

grate, screech, squeak.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
creak

Used to describe a high-pitched, squeaky sound typically made by wood or metal when it is under stress or in motion. Commonly heard in old houses, doors, or floorboards.

  • The old wooden floor began to creak as we walked across it.
  • She slowly opened the door, and it let out a long, eerie creak.
squeak

Describes a short, high-pitched sound that is usually softer and less harsh than a screech or grate. Often heard from toys, shoes, or small animals like mice.

  • The toy made a funny squeak when squeezed.
  • Her shoes squeaked loudly on the polished floors.
grate

Describes a harsh, rasping sound made when two hard surfaces move against each other. Often conveys discomfort or irritation.

  • The sound of the metal gate grating against the concrete was unbearable.
  • Her nails grated on the chalkboard, causing everyone to cringe.
screech

Refers to a very loud, high-pitched sound that is often alarming or irritating. Commonly associated with brakes, alarms, or animals like birds.

  • The car came to a sudden stop with a screech of brakes.
  • The owl let out an eerie screech in the middle of the night.

Examples of usage

  • The old door creaked as it opened slowly.
  • The wooden floors creaked with every step.
Context #2 | Noun

sound

A sharp, harsh, grating, or squeaking sound.

Synonyms

grate, screech, squeak.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
creak

Use 'creak' when describing a low, prolonged sound that occurs when something wooden or metallic is slightly moved or pressured.

  • The old wooden floorboards creak when you walk on them.
  • The door creaked as it slowly swung open.
squeak

Use 'squeak' for a short, high-pitched sound. It is often associated with small animals, or objects in need of lubrication.

  • The mouse let out a squeak as it scurried away.
  • The door squeaks every time you open it because it needs oil.
grate

Use 'grate' when describing a harsh and unpleasant sound resulting from two hard surfaces rubbing against each other.

  • The sound of nails grating against a chalkboard made me cringe.
  • Her voice grates on my nerves after a while.
screech

Use 'screech' for a high-pitched, loud, and sharp sound, often associated with tires, brakes, or birds. It has a startling or unpleasant quality.

  • The car tires screeched as it came to a sudden stop.
  • An owl screeched in the night, startling the campers.

Examples of usage

  • The creak of the floorboards echoed through the empty house.
  • The creak of the old chair could be heard across the room.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Sound Studies

  • Different materials produce distinctive creaking sounds, with wood known for its rich, resonant qualities.
  • Creaking noises are often linked with the physical properties of materials, particularly wood expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
  • Researchers study these sounds in mechanics to better understand wear and tear in structures.

Cultural References

  • Creaks are often featured in horror films to create suspense and signal danger, using sound as a storytelling tool.
  • In literature, creaking sounds are used to evoke emotions, often reflecting a characterโ€™s internal state, as seen in classical horror fiction.
  • Folk tales frequently use the concept of a creaking door as an eerie symbol, signaling the presence of something supernatural.

Psychology

  • Creaking sounds can trigger feelings of unease or fear, utilizing human instinct to detect danger.
  • Studies show that unexpected creaks in quiet environments can heighten anxiety and alertness, as the brain searches for potential threats.
  • Commonly, auditory stimuli like creaks are processed faster by the brain than visual cues, emphasizing their evolutionary importance.

Origin of 'creak'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'creak' comes from the Middle English 'creken', which is related to a similar sound, showing how language evolves over time.
  • Itโ€™s linked to the Old English 'crecan', meaning to make a noise, highlighting the auditory nature of the word.
  • Similar words in other languages, like 'craquer' in French, also describe making a crackling sound.

The word 'creak' originated in the early 14th century from Middle English 'creken', which is of imitative origin, mimicking the sound made when something creaks. Over time, the word has retained its original meaning of a sharp, harsh sound, often associated with old or wooden objects.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,532, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.