catcall

American  

[kat-kawl] / ˈkætˌkɔl /

noun

1. a shrill, whistlelike sound or loud raucous shout made to express disapproval at a theater, meeting, etc.

   Synonyms:

   jeer, hiss, boo

2. an instrument for producing such a sound.

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verb (used without object)

1. to sound catcalls.

verb (used with object)

1. to express disapproval of by catcalls.

catcall British  

/ ˈkætˌkɔːl /

noun

1. a shrill whistle or cry expressing disapproval, as at a public meeting, etc

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verb

1. to utter such a call (at); deride with catcalls

Other Word Forms

• catcaller noun

Etymology

Origin of catcall

First recorded in 1650–60; cat ( def. ) + call

Example Sentences

“Every time I would skate, people would catcall us or yell at us to do a kickflip,” she says.

From Los Angeles Times

Police say harassment is anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or is inappropriate, such as staring, constant questioning or catcalling.

From BBC

Molly Slater-Davison set up women-only run club These Girls Run in 2021, driven by her own struggle to find a welcoming local club and some negative running experiences including catcalling and being followed.

From BBC

“They were catcalling and whistling, and the crew all started doing versions of the dance. It sparked a lot of joy.”

From Los Angeles Times

As he stood there stewing in his agony, fully expecting jeers and catcalls from the surrounding pavilion crowd, the strangest thing happened.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• boo
• derision
• hiss
• hoot
• jeer
• whistle