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Croak Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'croak'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'croak' originates from the Old English term 'cracian', which means 'to croak or make a harsh sound.' It has cognates in several Germanic languages, illustrating a long history of describing the guttural sounds made by animals such as frogs. In English, the word has been used since at least the 14th century, initially to describe the sounds of both frogs and certain birds. Over time, 'croak' has also taken on metaphorical meanings, referring to a hoarse human voice or even signaling imminent death, showcasing the versatility and evolution of the term in everyday language.

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.