squeaking
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Making a high-pitched, sharp, and often short sound: Describes something that produces a noise similar to that of a mouse, a rusty hinge, or an unoiled wheel.
Usage
- The adjective "squeaking" is used to directly modify a noun, describing the source of the sound or the sound itself.
- It often implies a sound that is unpleasant, shrill, or indicative of friction or need.
Examples
- Adjective:
- We entered the old house through a squeaking door.
- The teacher was annoyed by the squeaking chalk on the blackboard.
- We could hear the squeaking mice in the attic at night.
Advanced Usage
- "squeaking" as a descriptive adjective in compound structures:
- The squeaking-noise was unbearable. (Note: This is a hyphenated compound adjective.)
- Used figuratively to describe a voice that is high-pitched and strained.
- He answered in a squeaking voice, full of nervousness.
Variants and Related Words
- Squeak (verb): To make a short, high-pitched sound.
- The mouse will squeak if it's frightened.
- Squeak (noun): The high-pitched sound itself.
- I heard a squeak from the floorboards.
- Squeaky (adjective): Tending to squeak; making a series of squeaks.
- The stairs are old and squeaky.
- Squeaker (noun): One that squeaks; also, a narrow victory (slang).
- The game was a real squeaker, won by a single point.
Synonyms
- Squeaky: Making or characterized by squeaks.
- Screeching: Making a loud, harsh, high-pitched sound.
- Creaking: Making a harsh, high-pitched sound when being moved or when pressure is applied (often used for wood or metal).
Antonyms
- Silent: Making no sound.
- Muffled: Having a sound that is not loud because it is blocked.
- Low-pitched: Having a deep or low sound.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- Squeaky clean: (Idiom) Completely clean; also meaning morally beyond reproach.
- After the scandal, the politician tried to present a squeaky-clean image.
- A narrow squeak: (Idiom, related to the noun 'squeak') A narrow escape from danger or failure.
- Passing the exam was a narrow squeak for him.
Adjective
- having or making a high-pitched sound such as that made by a mouse or a rusty hinge