Squeaked: meaning, definitions and examples

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squeaked

 

[skwiːkt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Squeaked is the past tense of the verb squeak, which means to make a short, high-pitched sound. This sound is often associated with objects that are under pressure or are moving in a way that causes friction. It can also refer to the sound made by certain types of animals, particularly rodents. The term can indicate a sense of urgency or surprise when used in a vernacular sense, implying that the speaker may be feeling pressed or squeezed in some metaphorical way.

Synonyms

chirped, creaked, whined.

Examples of usage

  • The door squeaked as it opened.
  • He squeaked out a warning just in time.
  • The mouse squeaked when it was trapped.
  • She squeaked with excitement when she saw the surprise.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'squeak' can be traced back to the Middle English word 'squeken,' showing its long history in the English language.
  • It is believed to have derived from the Middle Dutch word 'squeken,' which also means to squeak.
  • The term has evolved over the centuries but has consistently represented high-pitched sounds made by small creatures or objects.

Animal Behavior

  • Many small animals, such as mice and birds, squeak to communicate with each other, especially to signal danger.
  • Squeaking can be a sign of distress or a way for young animals to call out for their parents.
  • Different animals produce various types of squeaks, which can signify different emotions or messages.

Pop Culture

  • In animated films, characters often squeak when they are surprised or scared, enhancing the comedic effect.
  • Popular video games often feature characters that squeak to indicate actions or reactions, creating a playful atmosphere.
  • Squeaks have become iconic in certain cartoons, such as the squeaky voice of the character Daffy Duck.

Science of Sound

  • Squeaking is often related to the frequency of sound waves; high frequencies correspond to the squeaky noises we hear.
  • Many squeaks occur due to the vibrations of small objects and materials, much like the sound of a rubber duck when squeezed.
  • Acoustics studies the properties of sound and explains why certain sounds, like squeaks, can travel differently in various environments.

Psychology

  • Certain sounds, including squeaks, can elicit strong emotional reactions, often linked to surprise or fear.
  • Research indicates that high-frequency sounds can be perceived as more urgent or alarming than lower frequencies.
  • Squeaky sounds are often associated with childhood toys, invoking nostalgia and feelings of happiness.

Translations

Translations of the word "squeaked" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gritou

🇮🇳 चिढ़ाना

🇩🇪 quietschen

🇮🇩 mengikik

🇺🇦 скрипів

🇵🇱 piszczał

🇯🇵 きしむ

🇫🇷 grincer

🇪🇸 chirriar

🇹🇷 cızırdamak

🇰🇷 삐걱거리다

🇸🇦 صرير

🇨🇿 skřípat

🇸🇰 skričať

🇨🇳 吱吱声

🇸🇮 žvižgati

🇮🇸 skræla

🇰🇿 шырылдау

🇬🇪 წკრიალებს

🇦🇿 qıvrılmaq

🇲🇽 chirriar

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,336, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.