growl
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ɡraʊl/
KK: /graʊl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make a low, deep sound, often as a sign of anger or warning.
Example
The dog began to growl when it saw the stranger approaching.
Tense Forms
Past: growled
Past Participle: growled
Conversation
Did you hear that dog growl earlier?
Yeah, it sounded pretty fierce!
I wonder what made it growl like that.
Maybe it saw a cat or something.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grumble
snarl
rumble
Antonyms
whisper
coo
murmur
noun
Definition
A low, deep sound made by an animal, often indicating anger or warning.
Example
The dog let out a low growl when it saw the stranger approaching.
Conversation
Did you hear that low growl coming from the bushes earlier?
Yeah, it sounded a bit scary! I wonder what animal it was.
I hope it wasn't a bear or something; that growl was pretty menacing.
transitive verb
Definition
To make a low, guttural sound, often as a sign of anger or warning.
Example
The dog began to growl when it saw the stranger approaching.
Tense Forms
Past: growled
Past Participle: growled
Conversation
Did you hear that dog growl earlier?
Yeah, it sounded pretty fierce!
I wonder what made it growl like that.
Root Explanation
The word 'growl' originates from Middle English 'growlen', which is of uncertain origin but is thought to be imitative of the sound made by animals, particularly dogs. It describes the low, guttural sound made by an animal, often as a warning or sign of aggression.
Memory Tip
Imagine the sound of a dog making a low, threatening noise — that's what 'growl' captures, reflecting the sound itself.
Visually Confused Words
gowl
rowel
prowl
frowl
crowl