IPA: /bliːt/
KK: /blit/
To make a sound like a sheep or goat, often a weak or complaining sound.
The sheep began to bleat loudly when it saw its owner.
Past: bleated
Past Participle: bleated
A sound made by a goat or sheep, often described as a weak or whining noise.
The bleat of the sheep echoed across the field.
To make a weak, complaining sound, like the noise a sheep makes.
The sheep began to bleat when it was hungry.
Past: bleated
Past Participle: bleated
The word 'bleat' originates from Old English 'blǣtan', meaning to make the characteristic sound of a sheep or goat. It is imitative of the sound itself, reflecting the noise made by these animals.
Imagine the sound a sheep makes — that's what 'bleat' refers to. The Old English root helps you remember that it's all about that specific animal noise.