Growled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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growled
[ษกraสld ]
Definition
animal sound
To growl is to produce a low, guttural sound, often associated with animals, especially dogs. This sound typically indicates aggression, threat, or discomfort. When a dog growls, it serves as a warning to others, signaling that they should back off. While it is primarily an animal behavior, people may use the word metaphorically to describe someone speaking in a low or angry tone.
Synonyms
growl out, grumble, rumble, snarl.
Examples of usage
- The dog growled at the stranger.
- She could hear the bear growling in the distance.
- Don't growl at me; I'm just trying to help.
- He growled his disapproval under his breath.
Translations
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Origin of 'growled'
The word 'growl' traces its origins back to Middle English, where it was used in the form 'groulen' or 'grullen'. Its roots can be found in the Old English 'grลซwian', which means 'to mutter' or 'to grumble'. Over the centuries, the meaning expanded to encompass the low, threatening sound made by various animals, particularly canines. The onomatopoeic nature of the word reflects the guttural sound it describes, making it an effective descriptor of both animal and human behavior. The evolution of the term has influenced literature and colloquial speech, often used metaphorically to express displeasure or anger, akin to the sounds made by animals.