whistling

American  

[hwis-ling, wis-] / ˈʰwɪs lɪŋ, ˈwɪs- /

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that whistles.

2. the sound produced.

3. Veterinary Pathology. a form of roaring characterized by a peculiarly shrill sound.

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whistling British  

/ ˈwɪslɪŋ /

noun

1. vet science a breathing defect of horses characterized by a high-pitched sound with each intake of air Compare roaring

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Etymology

Origin of whistling

before 900; Middle English; Old English hwistlung. See whistle, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

“Investors have been whistling by the inflation graveyard and ignoring signals from the Treasury curve, as we’ve broken above 4.5% and on a trajectory to go even higher,” he added.

From MarketWatch • May 18, 2026

But if it's a simple tic, like whistling, then she says ignoring it is "the best thing" for her.

From BBC • Feb. 27, 2026

At the same time, they create a high pitched sound by whistling inside the larynx.

From Science Daily • Feb. 25, 2026

Wind speeds are higher up in the sky, and investment bankers are often distracted by whistling gales that blow against the tower.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 18, 2026

Marlie came next, smiling occasionally at Allun, who was swinging along beside her, whistling and singing as if he was on a country jaunt.

From "Rowan of Rin" by Emily Rodda