This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
wah-wah
or wa-wa
[ wah-wah ]
/ ˈwɑˌwɑ /
Save This Word!
This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
adjective
producing a muted, bawling sound like that of a trumpet with the hand moved momentarily over the bell: a wah-wah effect on a synthesizer; a guitar with a wah-wah pedal.
noun
a sound or effect like the muted sound of a trumpet, especially in music.
an electronic device or attachment to produce such a sound, often used with an electric guitar.
QUIZ
WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?
Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!
Question 1 of 7
Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.
Origin of wah-wah
First recorded in 1925–30; imitative
Words nearby wah-wah
Wahiawa, wahine, wahoo, Wahpekute, Wahpeton, wah-wah, wai, Waianae Mountains, waiata, waif, Waikaremoana
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use wah-wah in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for wah-wah
wah-wah
/ (ˈwɑːˌwɑː) /
noun
the sound made by a trumpet, cornet, etc, when the bell is alternately covered and uncovered: much used in jazz
an electronic attachment for an electric guitar, etc, that simulates this effect
Word Origin for wah-wah
C20: of imitative origin
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012