Whistle: meaning, definitions and examples

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whistle

[ ˈwɪsəl ]

^{Context #1}

sound

A clear, high-pitched sound made by forcing breath through a small hole between one's lips or teeth.

Synonyms

peep, toot, whistling

Examples of usage

He heard the whistle of the train in the distance.
She blew the whistle to get everyone's attention.

^{Context #2}

device

A small device that produces a high-pitched sound by forcing air or steam through a small hole.

Synonyms

alarm, alert, signal

Examples of usage

The referee used a whistle to signal the end of the game.
The lifeguard blew the whistle to warn swimmers of the danger.

^{Context #3}

sound

To make a high-pitched sound by forcing breath through a small hole between one's lips or teeth.

Synonyms

peep, toot, warble

Examples of usage

He began to whistle a tune as he worked.
The wind whistled through the trees.

Translations

Translations of the word "whistle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apito

🇮🇳 सीटी

🇩🇪 Pfeife

🇮🇩 peluit

🇺🇦 свисток

🇵🇱 gwizdek

🇯🇵 笛 (ふえ)

🇫🇷 sifflet

🇪🇸 silbato

🇹🇷 düdük

🇰🇷 호루라기

🇸🇦 صفارة

🇨🇿 píšťalka

🇸🇰 píšťalka

🇨🇳 哨子

🇸🇮 piščalka

🇮🇸 flauta

🇰🇿 ысқырық

🇬🇪 სასტვენი

🇦🇿 fit

🇲🇽 silbato

Word origin

The word 'whistle' has its origins in Old English 'hwistlian', which meant to make a sibilant sound. The use of whistles as signaling devices dates back to ancient times, with variations made from bone, wood, and metal. Whistles have been used in sports, military, and maritime contexts to convey commands or warnings. The association of whistles with referees and coaches in sports led to the term 'blow the whistle' meaning to signal a foul or stoppage. Whistles continue to be an important tool for communication and safety in various fields.