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squeal

 - 2 dictionary results

squeal

[skweel] ,
–noun
1. a somewhat prolonged, sharp, shrill cry, as of pain, fear, or surprise.
2. Slang.
a. an instance of informing against someone.
b. a protest or complaint; beef.
–verb (used without object)
3. to utter or emit a squeal or squealing sound.
4. Slang.
a. to turn informer; inform.
b. to protest or complain; beef.
–verb (used with object)
5. to utter or produce with a squeal.

Origin:
1250–1300; ME squelen; imit.


squealer, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To squeal
squeal   (skwēl)   
v.   squealed, squeal·ing, squeals

v.   intr.
  1. To give forth a loud shrill cry or sound.

  2. Slang To turn informer; betray an accomplice or secret.

v.   tr.
To utter or produce with a squeal.
n.  A loud, shrill cry or sound: a squeal of surprise; the squeal of tires.

[Middle English squelen, probably of imitative origin.]
squeal'er n.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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