squeal

American  

[skweel] / skwil /

noun

1. a somewhat prolonged, sharp, shrill cry, as of pain, fear, or surprise.

2. Slang.

   1. an instance of informing against someone.

   2. a protest or complaint; beef.

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verb (used without object)

1. to utter or emit a squeal or squealing sound.

2. Slang.

   1. to turn informer; inform.

   2. to protest or complain; beef.

verb (used with object)

1. to utter or produce with a squeal.

squeal British  

/ skwiːl /

noun

1. a high shrill yelp, as of pain

2. a screaming sound, as of tyres when a car brakes suddenly

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verb

1. to utter a squeal or with a squeal

2. slang (intr) to confess information about another

3. informal (intr) to complain or protest loudly

Other Word Forms

• squealer noun

Etymology

Origin of squeal

1250–1300; Middle English squelen; imitative

Example Sentences

I watch as a gargantuan sea monster breaks from the water, gives a squealing cry, and submerges once more.

From Literature

It was Margaret, who had arrived at a gallop and now stood squealing with excitement in the doorway.

From Literature

Old schoolmates who had not seen each other in years squealed and embraced.

From Literature

That was when Lady Constance began to squeal.

From Literature

She was nearly out the door when Lady Constance squealed and seized her by the arm.

From Literature

Related Words

• howl
• peep
• rasp
• screech
• shriek
• squawk
• wail
• yelp