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Squeaked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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squeaked

[skwiหkt ]

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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'squeaked'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'squeak' originates from the Middle English word 'squeken,' which is believed to be of imitative origin, echoing the sound it describes. This term is traced back further to the Old Norse word 'skvaukka,' reflecting a similar sound-making function. Throughout its evolution, 'squeak' has retained a connection to sounds that are sharp and high-pitched, often produced by small animals or objects under strain. The transition of 'squeak' into 'squeaked' represents a common linguistic process where the '-ed' suffix is added to verbs to signify the past tense, a feature that is prevalent in many English verbs. In contemporary usage, 'squeaked' conveys not just the sound itself but also an emotional undertone, depending on the contextโ€”ranging from humor to fright.

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.