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Squawk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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squawk

[skwɔːk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

bird sound

To make a loud, harsh noise like a bird. It is often used to describe the sound of a parrot or a crow. When a bird squawks, it makes a series of sharp, high-pitched cries.

Synonyms

screech, shriek, squall.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
squawk

Use 'squawk' to describe a loud, harsh noise typically made by birds, or sometimes to refer to people complaining loudly.

  • The parrots in the aviary started to squawk when they saw a stranger approaching.
  • She began to squawk about the unfair treatment at work.
screech

Use 'screech' for sharp, high-pitched noises, often associated with brakes, metal on metal, or sudden, panicked cries.

  • The car came to a halt with a loud screeching sound.
  • He let out a screech when he saw the spider.
shriek

Use 'shriek' to describe a loud, high-pitched cry of fear, pain, or excitement, often made by humans.

  • She let out a shriek of joy when she heard the good news.
  • The horror movie was filled with shrieks and screams.
squall

Use 'squall' to refer to sudden, violent gusts of wind or a baby's loud cry, often used in meteorological or parenting contexts.

  • The sailors were caught in a sudden squall while out at sea.
  • The baby started to squall in the middle of the night.

Examples of usage

  • The parrot squawked loudly when it saw its favorite treat.
  • The crow squawked from the tree, warning the other birds of danger.
Context #2 | Noun

aviation

A loud, harsh cry made by a bird, especially a parrot or a crow. In aviation, 'squawk' refers to the transponder code that aircraft use to identify themselves to air traffic control.

Synonyms

call, cry, scream.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
squawk

Squawk is typically used to describe the loud, harsh noise made by birds, and can also be used metaphorically to describe a loud, grating complaint or protest.

  • The parrot squawked loudly in its cage.
  • She squawked in outrage when she saw the mess.
cry

Cry generally refers to shedding tears in response to emotion, but can also mean a loud verbal exclamation. It can be used to describe human emotions or the sounds of certain animals.

  • She cried after hearing the sad news.
  • The baby began to cry softly.
  • A cry for help could be heard from the distance.
call

Call is a more general term that can refer to any vocal sound or shout made to attract attention. It can be used in various contexts, whether it's a person calling, an animal's call, or even a professional term like a business call.

  • He called out for his friend across the street.
  • The owl's call echoed through the night.
  • We had a conference call this morning.
scream

Scream denotes a loud, high-pitched noise made in fear, pain, or excitement. It has a strong emotional impact and is often used in dramatic contexts.

  • She screamed when she saw the spider.
  • The horror movie made him scream.

Examples of usage

  • The pilots received a squawk code from the air traffic controller.
  • The parrot let out a loud squawk, startling everyone in the room.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Many birds, especially parrots, use this type of sound to communicate distress or attract mates.
  • Squawking can serve as a warning to other birds about nearby predators.
  • Young birds often squawk as a way to beg for food from their parents.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'squawk box' refers to a device used by traders to communicate quickly and loudly on the stock market.
  • In cartoons, characters often make exaggerated squawking sounds to indicate panic or humor.
  • Famous movies like 'The Birdcage' highlight squawking birds to showcase their eccentric personalities.

Communication

  • Humans sometimes use 'squawk' metaphorically to describe loud and obnoxious talking, often in a humorous way.
  • The squawking sound is used in various media to symbolize chaos or discord, especially in crowded situations.
  • In some musical genres, the term signifies a vocal style characterized by loud, sharp sound.

Nature Sounds

  • Squawking is an important part of the natural soundscape in habitats where birds live, contributing to the overall ecosystem noise.
  • Different species have unique squawking patterns that can indicate their emotional state or environmental conditions.
  • Researchers study squawking to understand social structures and interactions within bird communities.

Origin of 'squawk'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English term 'squawken,' which means to cry in a harsh manner.
  • Its origins can be traced back to the imitation of the noise made by certain birds.
  • It has been in use since the 18th century, primarily referring to the sounds produced by birds.

The word 'squawk' originated in the early 17th century and is believed to be imitative in nature, mimicking the harsh sound made by certain birds. Over time, it has been adopted in both informal and technical contexts, reflecting the diverse meanings associated with the word.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,135 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.