caterwaul
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkætərˌwɔl/
KK: /ˈkætərˌwɔl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make a loud, unpleasant noise, similar to a cat's cry, often used to describe a noisy argument or a shrill sound.
Example
The cats began to caterwaul outside my window, making it hard to sleep.
Tense Forms
Past: caterwauled
Past Participle: caterwauled
Conversation
Did you hear those cats outside last night?
Yeah, they wouldn't stop caterwauling!
It was so loud, I thought they were fighting or something.
I know, right? It sounded like they were having a dramatic argument!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
wail
howl
screech
Antonyms
whisper
murmur
calm
noun
Definition
A loud and unpleasant noise, often resembling a wailing or screeching sound.
Example
The caterwaul of the cats outside kept me awake all night.
Conversation
Did you hear that awful caterwaul coming from the alley last night?
Yeah, it was so loud! I thought something was wrong.
I know, right? It sounded like a cat was in trouble.
Root Explanation
Caterwaul → The word originates from Middle English *caterwawlen*, which is imitative of the sound made by cats in heat, combining 'cater' (meaning cat) and 'waul' (meaning to wail or cry). It describes the loud, wailing noise made by cats, especially during mating season.
Memory Tip
Imagine a cat making a loud 'wailing' sound — that's what 'caterwaul' means, as it directly relates to the noise a cat makes.
Visually Confused Words
crateral