Definition

1. Noun:

   • The characteristic vocal sound made by a domestic cat; a meow. It can also refer to any sound that resembles this.

2. Verb:

   • To make the sound characteristic of a cat; to meow.

Usage

• Noun: Used to name or describe the sound itself.
• Verb: Used to describe the action of producing that sound.

Examples

• Noun:

  • A plaintive miaou came from under the porch.
  • The kitten's tiny miaou was barely audible.

• Verb:

  • The stray cat would miaou at the door every evening.
  • I heard something miaou in the alley.

Advanced Usage

• The word miaou is an example of onomatopoeia, where the word phonetically imitates the sound it describes. It is one of several spellings for this sound.

Variants and Related Words

• Meow (noun/verb): The most common modern spelling in American English.
• Miaow (noun/verb): A common spelling, particularly in British English.
• Mew (noun/verb): Often used for the softer, higher-pitched sound of a kitten or cat.

Synonyms

• Noun: meow, mew, cry (of a cat)
• Verb: meow, mew, cry

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning is directly related to the sound of a cat. When used for other things (e.g., "the rusty gate gave a miaou"), it is a figurative use implying a similar high-pitched, creaky, or plaintive sound.

Noun

1. the sound made by a cat (or any sound resembling this)

Verb

1. make a cat-like sound