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whistle

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ˈwɪsəl/

KK: /ˈhwɪsəl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To make a high-pitched sound by forcing air through a small opening, often by pursing the lips or using a device.


Example

He can whistle a beautiful tune while walking down the street.


Tense Forms

Past: whistled

Past Participle: whistled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that sound? It almost sounded like someone was trying to whistle.
Sloth B
Yeah, it was pretty loud! I wonder what it was about.
Sloth A
I think it might be the kids playing outside; they love to whistle while they play.
Sloth B
That makes sense! It's nice to hear them having fun.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chirp
tweet
squeal
Antonyms
mumble
silence
whisper
noun
Definition

A small device or instrument that makes a high-pitched sound when air is forced through it, often used to signal or get attention.


Example

The coach used a whistle to signal the players during the game.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that loud whistle coming from the factory earlier?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was really piercing!
Sloth A
I wonder what they were signaling with that whistle.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To make a sound by forcing air through a small opening, often to create a tune or to get someone's attention.


Example

He can whistle a beautiful melody that everyone loves.


Tense Forms

Past: whistled

Past Participle: whistled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that? I can whistle a tune now!
Sloth B
Really? That's awesome! What song can you whistle?
Sloth A
I can do the melody of 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.'
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Whistle → The word originates from Old English 'hwistlian', meaning to make a sound by forcing air through a small opening. It describes the action of producing a high-pitched sound, typically by blowing air through pursed lips or a small instrument.

Memory Tip

Think of making a sound by 'forcing air through' — that's what it means to whistle.

Visually Confused Words
bewhistle
whittle
whirtle
twistle
thistle
wiste
white
while
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Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pipe
horn
signal
Antonyms
silence
muteness
quiet
Nice! You should whistle it for me sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
signal
summon
direct
Antonyms
ignore
dismiss
neglect