verb
creak
kreek
Creak (verb) means to make a harsh, grating, or squeaking sound, typically from friction between hard surfaces. Example: “The old floorboards creaked with every step.”
verb
1
To make a harsh, grating, or squeaking sound, typically from friction between hard surfaces.
"The old floorboards creaked with every step."
"The rusty gate creaked open in the wind."
noun
1
The grating or squeaking sound made by something creaking.
"She heard a creak on the stairs and froze."
How to use creak
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA squeaky, grating sound, typically from old wood, hinges, or joints.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
the floor creaked
a creaking door
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Word forms
- Plural
- creaks
- Third person singular
- creaks
- Past tense
- creaked
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The old floorboards _____ with every step.
Etymology
From Old English cearcian, "to creak or gnash," of imitative origin — the word was likely invented to sound like the noise it describes.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for creak
See all rhymes for creak →Frequently asked questions
What does “creak” mean?
The word “creak” means to make a harsh, grating, or squeaking sound, typically from friction between hard surfaces. In plain terms, a squeaky, grating sound, typically from old wood, hinges, or joints.
How do you pronounce “creak”?
“Creak” is pronounced kreek (/kɹiːk/ in IPA).
How do you use “creak” in a sentence?
Here is “creak” used in a sentence: “The old floorboards creaked with every step.”
What part of speech is “creak”?
Depending on how it is used, “creak” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “creak” come from?
The word “creak” comes from Old English. From Old English cearcian, "to creak or gnash," of imitative origin — the word was likely invented to sound like the noise it describes.
How many meanings does “creak” have?
“Creak” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make a harsh, grating, or squeaking sound, typically from friction between hard surfaces.
