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growling

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ˈɡraʊlɪŋ/

KK: /ˈɡraʊlɪŋ/

adjective
Definition

Describing a sound that is low and rumbling, often made by animals like dogs when they are angry or warning others.


Example

The growling dog stood protectively in front of its owner.


Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparative: more growling

Superlative: most growling


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that growling noise coming from the basement?
Sloth B
Yeah, it sounded a bit creepy, didn’t it?
Sloth A
I wonder if it's just the old pipes or something more serious.
Sloth B
Let's check it out together; I’d hate to face a growling monster alone!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grumbling
rumbling
snarling
Antonyms
calm
gentle
peaceful
noun
Definition

A continuous sound made by an animal, often a low, rumbling noise that can indicate anger or warning.


Example

The growling of the dog made everyone feel uneasy.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that strange growling noise outside last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was a bit creepy, wasn’t it?
Sloth A
I wonder if it was just a dog or something bigger.
Sloth B
verb
Definition

Making a low, guttural sound, often associated with animals like dogs when they are angry or warning someone.


Example

The dog was growling at the stranger approaching the yard.


Tense Forms

Past: growled

Past Participle: growled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that growling sound outside last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it sounded pretty scary! I thought it was a wild animal.
Sloth A
I was worried too, especially since it kept getting louder.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Growling → The word 'growling' is derived from the Old English 'grūwian' (meaning to grumble or murmur) and the suffix '-ing' (indicating the action or process of). Thus, 'growling' refers to the action of making a low, guttural sound, often associated with animals expressing displeasure or warning.

Memory Tip

Imagine an animal making a low sound to express its feelings — that's what 'growling' means, as it comes from the Old English word for grumbling.

Visually Confused Words
prowling
rowing
owling
ungrowing
groveling
groomling
crownling
trowing
Is this page helpful?
I hope it was just a dog — I don’t want to find out what’s making that growling sound!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grumble
rumble
snarl
Antonyms
whisper
silence
calm
Same here! I hope it wasn't anything dangerous.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grumbling
rumbling
snarling
Antonyms
whispering
calming
soothing