Croakier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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croakier

[ˈkrō-kē-ər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

sound quality

Croakier refers to a more hoarse or grating sound, often associated with voices that have been affected by strain, illness, or fatigue. It often describes someone who's been speaking or singing too much, causing their voice to become rough and low-pitched. The term can also be used to describe certain types of animal calls, especially frogs, where a croaky sound is characteristic. In casual conversation, describing a voice as croakier often implies an unpleasantness or lack of clarity.

Synonyms

gruff, hoarse, raspy.

Examples of usage

  • His voice was croakier than before.
  • She sounded croakier after yelling at the game.
  • The croakier sounds of the frogs filled the night air.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Animated films often use characters with croaky voices for comedic effects, like tired or elderly characters.
  • In music, croaky vocals have been embraced in genres such as blues, where they convey emotion.
  • Television shows frequently depict characters with croaky voices as either humorous or distressed.

Health

  • A croaky voice can sometimes be a sign of voice strain or an upper respiratory infection, leading to hoarseness.
  • Vocal rest, hydration, and avoiding irritants can help restore a hoarse voice.
  • Laryngitis, an inflammation of the voice box, often causes a croaky voice, especially after shouting or prolonged speaking.

Literature

  • Croaky voices are often used in literature to depict characters with age or rugged lifestyles, emphasizing their life experiences.
  • In poetry, a croaky tone can be employed to evoke emotions, such as sadness or despair.
  • Classic tales sometimes feature croaky characters that symbolize wisdom or warning, resembling the old, wise frog archetype.

Behavioral Psychology

  • Researchers indicate that changes in voice quality can reflect emotional states like stress or anxiety.
  • Children often mimic croaky voices for comedic effect, indicating an understanding of social cues in humor.
  • Voices that sound croaky can impact how others perceive a person's confidence and authority.

Origin of 'croakier'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'croak' has origins in the late 14th century, referring to the sound frogs make.
  • It also links to the Old English term 'cracian', which means to crack or break.
  • The suffix '-ier' indicates a comparative form, suggesting more of the croaking quality.

The term 'croaky' originates from the verb 'croak,' which is linked to the sound that frogs make, resembling a rough and deep call. The word 'croak' dates back to the late 14th century, initially referred to the sound of a raven or a frog. It is of imitative origin, meaning it was formed from the sound itself. The suffix '-ier' is often added to adjectives to form the comparative degree, suggesting that something has more of that quality. Therefore, croakier literally means having more of the croak-like quality. Over time, the term has been colloquially adopted to describe a range of vocal qualities, especially in humans, that reflect tiredness or strain. Its usage has evolved, finding a place not only in linguistic contexts but also in casual conversations about health or emotional states.