Squeaked: meaning, definitions and examples
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squeaked
[skwiːkt ]
Definition
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
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.
- ...
- 25333 snorting
- 25334 reeking
- 25335 osmium
- 25336 squeaked
- 25337 hysterically
- 25338 nit
- 25339 unhindered
- ...