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Croak: meaning, definitions and examples

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croak

 

[krəʊk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

sound production

To croak means to make a low, hoarse sound or to produce a sound typically associated with frogs. It can also refer to a rough voice, as when someone speaks in a hoarse manner. Additionally, it can describe the sound made when someone is dying or on the verge of death.

Synonyms

croak out, gasp, gurgle, rattle.

Examples of usage

  • The frogs began to croak at dusk.
  • He croaked out a warning before collapsing.
  • She croaked from the cold after being outside for too long.
Context #2 | Noun

animal sound

A croak refers to the sound made by frogs or certain birds, characterized by a low, throaty noise. This term can also describe the sound qualities of a person's voice when they are hoarse or weak.

Synonyms

call, noise, sound.

Examples of usage

  • The croak of the frog was soothing in the evening.
  • His croak resembled that of a dying bird.
  • She let out a croak when she tried to speak.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'croak' originates from the Old English word 'cracian,' which means to make a harsh sound.
  • It's been used to describe the noises of frogs since at least the 15th century, but can also refer to any hoarse voice.
  • The word has been connected to the sounds that dying animals make, emphasizing the seriousness of the sound.

Animal Behavior

  • Frogs croak mainly to attract mates, with different species producing distinct sounds to communicate.
  • Not all frog croaks are the same; some can mimic other sounds or other creatures to confuse predators or competitors.
  • It's believed that the frequency of a frog's croak can indicate its size and health, serving as a signal to potential mates.

Pop Culture

  • In cartoons and movies, frogs are often depicted as speaking in a 'croaky' voice, adding humor to their character.
  • The phrase 'time to croak' is sometimes used in urban slang to mean someone is in danger or about to die, playing off the darker meanings of the word.
  • Movies like 'The Princess and the Frog' feature anthropomorphic frogs, showcasing their ability to croak in a fun and musical way.

Health & Medicine

  • In medical contexts, a 'croaky voice' can indicate a condition such as laryngitis, where the voice becomes hoarse or rough.
  • Vocal cords can become inflamed or tired from overuse, leading people to experience a croaky voice after singing or shouting.
  • Doctors sometimes describe a 'croaky' breathing sound in patients with breathing difficulties, highlighting the importance of clarity in communication.

Literature

  • Writers often use the term 'croak' metaphorically, portraying characters who are weary or ill with a raspy voice.
  • In poetry, the croaking of frogs is sometimes symbolic of change or the arrival of night, reflecting deeper themes of nature.
  • Famous works use animal sounds, including croaks, to add realism to scenes set in nature or to create atmosphere.

Translations

Translations of the word "croak" in other languages:

🇵🇹 croak

🇮🇳 कर्कश आवाज़ निकालना

🇩🇪 quaken

🇮🇩 berkokok

🇺🇦 квакати

🇵🇱 krakać

🇯🇵 カエルの声を出す

🇫🇷 croasser

🇪🇸 croar

🇹🇷 vaklamak

🇰🇷 개구리처럼 울다

🇸🇦 صوت الضفدع

🇨🇿 kvákat

🇸🇰 kvákať

🇨🇳 呱呱叫

🇸🇮 krekati

🇮🇸 kalla

🇰🇿 шақыру

🇬🇪 კვატი

🇦🇿 cırıltı

🇲🇽 croar

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,800, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.