Langimage
English

purr

|purr|

B1

🇺🇸

/pɜr/

🇬🇧

/pɜː/

soft vibrating sound

Etymology
Etymology Information

'purr' originates from the imitative sound of a cat's purring, first recorded in the 17th century.

Historical Evolution

'purr' has remained largely unchanged in form and meaning since its first recorded use.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant the sound made by a cat, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a low, continuous, vibrating sound made by a cat or other animal.

The gentle purr of the cat was soothing.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to make a low, continuous, vibrating sound, typically as an expression of contentment (used especially of a cat).

The cat purred softly as it lay on my lap.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41