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Squeal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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squeal

[skwiหl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

loud noise

To make a loud, high-pitched sound, especially because of pain or fear.

Synonyms

scream, shriek, yelp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
squeal

Often used to describe a high-pitched, excited or frightened sound made by humans or animals. It can be both positive and negative.

  • The children squealed with delight when they saw the ice cream truck.
  • The piglet let out a squeal when it was picked up.
scream

Usually refers to a loud, long sound made by a person, typically due to extreme emotion such as fear, pain, or excitement.

  • She screamed when she saw the spider on her pillow.
  • The fans screamed in excitement at the concert.
shriek

Describes a very high-pitched, piercing sound made by humans, often due to intense fear or extreme surprise. It has a more intense connotation than 'scream'.

  • He shrieked in terror when the ghost suddenly appeared.
  • Her shriek of laughter could be heard across the hall.
yelp

Commonly used to describe a short, sharp cry, usually made by animals, particularly dogs, when they are in pain or surprised. Can also describe a similar sound made by humans.

  • The dog let out a yelp when it stepped on a thorn.
  • He yelped in surprise when someone tapped him on the shoulder.

Examples of usage

  • The piglet squealed in fear when it saw the snake.
  • The brakes on the car squealed as it came to a sudden stop.
Context #2 | Noun

sound

A long, high-pitched cry or noise.

Synonyms

cry, screech, yell.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
squeal

Squeal is typically used to describe a high-pitched noise, often made by an animal or a person who is excited, scared, or surprised.

  • The children squealed with delight when they saw the puppy
  • The brakes on the car began to squeal when he hit them suddenly
cry

Cry can be used when someone is shedding tears or making a loud noise because they are sad, hurt or in need of help. It can also describe a loud call.

  • The baby began to cry when he was hungry
  • She cried tears of joy at the sight of her family
yell

Yell is used to describe shouting loudly, often because of excitement, anger, or to get someone's attention.

  • She had to yell to be heard over the music
  • The coach yelled instructions to the players from the sidelines
screech

Screech refers to a loud, harsh, piercing sound. It is often used to describe noises made by birds, brakes, or people who are in panic or distress.

  • The owl let out a screech in the night
  • The tires screeched as the car came to a sudden stop

Examples of usage

  • The squeal of the brakes could be heard from miles away.
  • The child let out a loud squeal of excitement.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Pigs often squeal to communicate with one another, especially when they are excited or in distress.
  • Squealing is also a common vocalization for puppies, indicating playfulness or attention-seeking behavior.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often squeal in excitement when they see a celebrity or experience something thrilling.
  • The phrase 'squeal like a pig' is used to describe someone who is very upset or is complaining loudly.

Psychology

  • Squealing can be a reaction to moments of intense emotion, whether positive (like joy) or negative (like fear).
  • Children are more likely to squeal when they are playing or feeling joyous; it's a way to express excitement.

Music and Sound

  • Many musical instruments, like certain types of flutes, can produce squealing notes, adding emotional highs to melodies.
  • In modern music, the term 'squeal' is sometimes used to describe a high-pitched sound that creates excitement in a song.

Origin of 'squeal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English 'squelen', which means to cry out or scream.
  • It has roots in Old English as 'squฤ“lian', which shares a connection with similar sounds made by animals.

The word 'squeal' originated in the late 16th century and is believed to be imitative of the sound itself. It has been used to describe high-pitched cries or noises ever since.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,913, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.