Whistling: meaning, definitions and examples

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whistling

[ˈwɪslɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

sound

The action of producing a high-pitched sound by forcing breath through a small hole between one's lips or teeth.

Synonyms

piping, tooting, tweeting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
whistling	This is used when someone produces a high-pitched sound by blowing air through pursed lips, often as a signal or to call attention. He was whistling a cheerful tune while walking down the street. The coach whistled to signal the end of the game.
piping	This usually refers to a high, clear sound produced by a musical instrument like a pipe or flute, or sometimes used to describe a high-pitched voice. The sound of bagpipes was piping through the valley. Her piping voice could be heard over the crowd.
tweeting	This is commonly associated with the sounds made by birds, particularly small ones like sparrows or canaries. It can also refer to posting short messages on the social media platform Twitter. You could hear the birds tweeting in the early morning. She spent the afternoon tweeting updates from the event.
tooting	Often used to describe the sound made by a horn, such as those on cars or trains, and can also refer to short, sharp sounds from wind instruments like trumpets. The car was tooting its horn impatiently. He gave a quick toot on the trumpet before the concert began.

Examples of usage

He was whistling a tune as he walked down the street.
She whistled to get her dog's attention.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

music

A simple tune or call made by whistling.

Synonyms

call, signal, tune.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
whistling	Whistling can also be used in a more specific context such as signaling someone, often seen in informal or less formal situations. He gave a sharp whistle to get the dog's attention. A whistle from the coach signaled the end of practice.
tune	Tune is associated with a musical melody. It refers to a sequence of notes that are musically satisfying. He played a familiar tune on the piano. She hummed a tune while waiting for the bus.
call	Call is used when you want to get someone's attention, either by voice or another method. It can also refer to a phone call. He called out to his friend across the park. She gave him a call to discuss the project details.
signal	Signal refers to a gesture, action, or sound used to convey information or instructions. It often implies some form of coded or conventional communication. She gave a hand signal to indicate they should stop. The traffic light turned green, which was the signal to go.

Examples of usage

He greeted her with a cheerful whistle.
The whistle of the wind through the trees was soothing.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The act of whistling dates back to ancient Greece where it was often used to convey messages.
In the 1800s, whistling became popular among sailors, allowing them to communicate with one another over great distances.
Many cultures have used whistling as a form of celebration or signaling during important events, such as ceremonies.

Science

Whistling involves creating a vibration of the lips or tongue which produces sound waves that travel through the air.
The pitch of a whistle can change depending on how tight or loose the lips are and the size of the mouth opening.
Research shows that whistling can actually improve lung capacity and strengthen respiratory muscles.

Music

Many famous songs feature whistling as a key musical element, like 'Colonel Bogey March' and 'Patience' by Guns N' Roses.
In folk music, whistling often accompanies traditional instruments, adding a playful and melodic touch.
Some composers utilize whistling in film scores to evoke a sense of nostalgia or whimsy.

Cultural Significance

In some cultures, whistling at night is considered bad luck or disrespectful, rooted in superstitions.
Whistling is often used in sports games to communicate with players and enhance the excitement of the event.
In certain indigenous tribes, whistling was traditionally believed to summon spirits or ancestors during rituals.

Psychology

Studies indicate that whistling can enhance mood and reduce stress, functioning as a simple form of self-expression.
Psychologists suggest that people often whistle when they're happy or relaxed, making it a sign of positivity.
Whistling along to music has been shown to increase memory retention and improve cognitive function.

Translations

Translations of the word "whistling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 assobio

🇮🇳 सीटी

🇩🇪 Pfeifen

🇮🇩 bersiul

🇺🇦 свист

🇵🇱 gwizd

🇯🇵 口笛

🇫🇷 sifflement

🇪🇸 silbido

🇹🇷 ıslık

🇰🇷 휘파람

🇸🇦 صفير

🇨🇿 pískání

🇸🇰 pískanie

🇨🇳 吹口哨

🇸🇮 žvižg

🇮🇸 flauta

🇰🇿 ысқырық

🇬🇪 სისინი

🇦🇿 fit

🇲🇽 silbido

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,621, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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14618 linseed
14619 icons
14620 chute
14621 whistling
14622 secretory
14623 verbatim
14624 repute
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