whistling
|whis-tling|
B1
/ˈwɪs.lɪŋ/
(whistle)
high-pitched sound
Etymology
Etymology Information
'whistle' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'hwistlian', where 'hwist-' meant 'to make a sound'.
Historical Evolution
'hwistlian' transformed into the Middle English word 'whistlen', and eventually became the modern English word 'whistle'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to make a sound', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to produce a high-pitched sound'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act or sound of producing a high-pitched sound by forcing air through a small opening, typically using the lips.
The whistling of the wind was eerie.
Synonyms
Verb 1
present participle of 'whistle'.
He was whistling a cheerful tune.
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45