squeal
Squeal (noun) means a loud, high-pitched cry or sound. Example: “The children let out a squeal of delight on the rollercoaster.”
How to use squeal
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA shrill cry — or, informally, to snitch on someone.
The "inform on someone" sense is slang and mainly used in crime contexts; don't use it in formal writing.
Word forms
squealed past tense, squeals plural, squeals singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The children let out a _____ of delight on the rollercoaster.
Etymology
From Middle English squelen, likely from Old Norse skvala, "to squeal or bawl."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for squeal
See all rhymes for squeal →Frequently asked questions
What does “squeal” mean?
The word “squeal” means a loud, high-pitched cry or sound. In plain terms, a shrill cry — or, informally, to snitch on someone.
How do you pronounce “squeal”?
“Squeal” is pronounced skweel (/skwil/ in IPA).
How do you use “squeal” in a sentence?
Here is “squeal” used in a sentence: “The children let out a squeal of delight on the rollercoaster.”
What is another word for “squeal”?
Words with a similar meaning to “squeal” include grass up and snitch.
What part of speech is “squeal”?
Depending on how it is used, “squeal” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “squeal” come from?
The word “squeal” comes from Middle English. From Middle English squelen, likely from Old Norse skvala, "to squeal or bawl.".
How many meanings does “squeal” have?
“Squeal” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a loud, high-pitched cry or sound.