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Hissed: meaning, definitions and examples

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hissed

 

[hΙͺst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sound production

To hiss means to make a sharp sibilant sound, often used to express annoyance or to signify danger. It can also refer to the sound made by certain animals, like snakes, or the release of gas.

Synonyms

sibilate, sigh, whisper.

Examples of usage

  • The cat hissed when it felt threatened.
  • The steam began to hiss as it escaped from the kettle.
  • She hissed in disapproval at the loud music.
  • The snake hissed, warning us to stay away.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the late Middle Ages, derived from the Old English 'hissian', which mimics the sound itself.
  • Related words in other languages include the German 'zischen', which also means to hiss or sizzle.
  • The sound has been described as an onomatopoeia, imitating the hissing sound produced by animals.

Animal Behavior

  • Many animals, including snakes and cats, use hissing as a form of communication to express fear or aggression.
  • Some birds also hiss when defending their nests or chicks, showcasing the sound's role in self-defense.
  • A hissing cat often serves as a sign that it feels threatened, encouraging humans to leave it alone.

Cultural References

  • Hissing is commonly depicted in movies and literature as an indication of danger or a warning, often associated with villains.
  • In sports, fans sometimes hiss to express disapproval, creating an atmosphere of tension in stadiums.
  • The sound has appeared in various musical compositions to evoke feelings of hostility or discomfort in the audience.

Psychology

  • Hissing can trigger a physiological response in humans, often creating a feeling of discomfort or unease.
  • Research suggests that sounds and vocalizations like hissing can evoke stronger emotions and memories than other noises.
  • The reaction to hissing may stem from evolutionary traits, where recognizing threat sounds was vital for survival.

Literature

  • Hissing has been used in poetry and prose to convey tension, danger, or the eerie quality of a scene.
  • Famous authors like Edgar Allan Poe often employed soft hissing sounds to enhance the suspense in their stories.
  • In folklore, hissing creatures often symbolize deceit or treachery, reinforcing the association between the sound and danger.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,717, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.