Growling: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe the low, threatening sound made by animals, especially dogs, when they are angry or warning others to stay away. It can also describe a similar, low sound made by a person's stomach when they are hungry.

• The dog was growling at the stranger, warning him not to come any closer.
• Her stomach started growling in the middle of the meeting, making her feel embarrassed.

This refers to a threatening or angry noise or sound, often gutteral, made by animals, particularly dogs or wolves. People can also snarl to show anger or aggression, often showing their teeth.

• The wolf let out a menacing snarl as it confronted its enemy.
• He snarled at the driver who cut him off in traffic, clearly irritated.

This is used to describe a quieter, often continuous complaint or expression of dissatisfaction. It can be used for people who are unhappy about something but not vocally angry.

• The employees were grumbling about the new work schedule changes.
• He tends to grumble when he has to do chores around the house.

This word indicates a very loud, powerful noise, usually made by a lion or other big animals. It can also be used to describe a person talking or laughing very loudly.

• The lion's roar could be heard throughout the jungle.
• His roar of laughter filled the room when he heard the joke.

This term is often used to describe the low, threatening sound made by animals, especially dogs, when they are angry or feel threatened. It can also describe a person's stomach making noise when they are hungry.

• The dog started growling when it saw the stranger approaching.
• I knew it was time for lunch when I heard my stomach growling.

Rumbling refers to a low, continuous sound, which is often deep and resonant. It can describe thunder, traffic, or even a stomach noise but in a less intense way than growling.

• The distant rumble of thunder signaled the approaching storm.
• I heard a rumble in my stomach as lunchtime approached.

Grumbling usually refers to a person complaining quietly about something, often in a low voice. It can also describe a low, continuous noise.

• She started to grumble about the long wait at the doctor's office.
• The employees grumbled about the new policy changes.

This word describes a happy, bubbling sound, often used for the noise a baby makes when they are content. It can also describe the sound of liquid flowing in a swirling motion.

• The baby gurgled happily as she played with her toys.
• I could hear the stream gurgle as it flowed over the rocks.