yelp

[yelp]

verb (used without object)

1. to give a quick, sharp, shrill cry, as a dog or fox.

2. to call or cry out sharply.

   The boy yelped in pain when the horse stepped on his foot.

verb (used with object)

1. to utter or express by or as if by yelping.

noun

1. a quick, sharp bark or cry.

yelp

/ jɛlp /

verb

1. (esp of a dog) to utter a sharp or high-pitched cry or bark, often indicating pain

noun

1. a sharp or high-pitched cry or bark

Other Word Forms

• yelper noun
• outyelp verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of yelp¹

before 900; (v.) Middle English yelpen, Old English gielpan to boast; cognate with Low German galpen to croak; (noun) Middle English: boasting, Old English gielp, derivative of the v.

Word History and Origins

Origin of yelp¹

Old English gielpan to boast; related to Low German galpen to croak, Danish gylpe to croak

Example Sentences

“South Park”’s official X account reacted by posting the episode’s Paramount+ exclusive ending credits scene, wherein its animated Noem is seen entering a pet store, followed by the sound of gunfire and canine yelps.

From Salon

It was now a cold, silent night, broken only by snores, the occasional yelp of someone dreaming, and the hoot of a single owl.

From BBC

Perhaps because of that, he has nightmares, during which he kicks his feet and yelps.

From Los Angeles Times

“What counts is that the combinations of music and words and yelps strike nerves,” he added.

From Los Angeles Times

The album showcases the most expressive singing Fender has put on record, not least in the gorgeous “Arm’s Length,” where he dials back his desperate yelp to find a soulful new register.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• hoot