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Croaking: meaning, definitions and examples

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croaking

 

[ ˈkroʊkɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

animal sound

Croaking refers to the deep, hoarse sound made by certain animals, especially frogs. It is often associated with the mating calls of frogs, signaling their presence to potential partners. Additionally, the term can also be used to describe similar sounds made by other creatures or, in a metaphorical sense, by humans when they speak in a raspy or hoarse voice. The sound can vary in tone and volume based on the species and environmental conditions.

Synonyms

caw, croak, grumble

Examples of usage

  • The bullfrog was croaking loudly at sunset.
  • She could hear the croaking of frogs from her window.
  • During the spring, the pond was filled with croaking sounds.
  • His voice was croaking after the long night of singing.

Translations

Translations of the word "croaking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 croak

🇮🇳 कर्कश आवाज़

🇩🇪 quaken

🇮🇩 berkokok

🇺🇦 квакання

🇵🇱 kumkanie

🇯🇵 カエルの鳴き声

🇫🇷 croassement

🇪🇸 croar

🇹🇷 sırnaşma

🇰🇷 개구리 울음

🇸🇦 صوت الضفدع

🇨🇿 kvákání

🇸🇰 kvákanie

🇨🇳 呱呱叫

🇸🇮 krekec

🇮🇸 kveikja

🇰🇿 квактау

🇬🇪 კრწა

🇦🇿 kəkirdəmək

🇲🇽 croar

Etymology

The word 'croaking' originates from the Old English word 'crocian', which means to croak or make a hoarse sound. This term is related to various onomatopoeic words found in several languages that mimic the sound made by frogs and similar animals. The sound associated with croaking is one that has been recognized in the animal kingdom for centuries, primarily linked to the mating rituals of frogs, which croak to attract mates during breeding seasons. As language evolved, the term began to encompass a broader range of contexts, eventually being used to describe similar sounds made by other animals and even humans. The concept of croaking has also infiltrated colloquial language, where it may describe a person's hoarse voice or an expression of discontent. The cultural significance of croaking can be seen in various folklore and literature, where such sounds are often associated with foreboding or mystery, linking the animal with ancient beliefs in superstition.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,526, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.