Squawking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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squawking
[ˈskwɔːkɪŋ ]
Definition
bird sound
Squawking refers to the loud, harsh, and often repetitive noise made by certain birds, especially parrots and some waterfowl. This vocalization can serve various purposes including communication, mating calls, or expressing distress. In a broader sense, it can also describe any loud and disruptive chatter or noise made by people or animals. The term often carries a negative connotation, implying a kind of noise that is abrasive or annoying.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The parrot was squawking loudly in its cage.
- The geese began squawking as they took flight.
- She couldn't concentrate because of the squawking children outside.
Translations
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Origin of 'squawking'
The term 'squawk' has its origins in the early 19th century, deriving from the dialectal word 'squawk' or 'squall,' which refers to a loud cry. The word is believed to imitate the actual sounds made by birds, particularly those of waterfowl and some tropical birds, which produce harsh, grating noises. This onomatopoeic nature of the word means it mimics the sound it describes. Over time, 'squawking' has evolved to represent not just the noise of birds but has also been used metaphorically to describe loud or annoying human chatter. The flexibility of the term in common usage highlights the human tendency to associate various types of vocal disturbances with the original, more natural expression of animal sounds.