Definition

A sound made by forcing air through a narrow opening, often resembling a snake's noise or a steam escaping.

Example

The hissing of the steam made it clear that the kettle was boiling.

Conversation

Did you hear that weird hissing sound last night?

Yeah, it was really strange; I wondered what it was too.

I thought it might be a snake or something outside.

Maybe! It's definitely a sound you don't want to ignore.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make a sharp, sibilant sound like that of a snake or steam escaping.

Example

The cat was hissing at the dog to warn it to stay away.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that cat hissing earlier?

Yeah, I thought it sounded a bit angry.

I wonder what made it start hissing like that.

Root Explanation

Hissing → The word 'hissing' originates from the Old English 'hissian', which means to make a hissing sound. It describes the act of producing a sound similar to that of a snake or steam escaping.

Memory Tip

Think of the sound a snake makes when it 'hisses' — this helps you remember that 'hissing' refers to making that specific sound.

Visually Confused Words