Hissing

/ˈhɪsɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The sound made when air is forced through a narrow opening, resembling a prolonged 's' or 'sh'.

The hissing of the steam from the kettle signaled that the water was boiling.

An expression of contempt or disapproval, often in a public setting.

The hissing from the crowd suggested they were not pleased with the politician's speech.

verb

To make a sound like a prolonged 's' or 'sh', often produced by forcing air through a narrow opening.

The snake was hissing as a warning to potential threats.

To express disapproval or contempt by making a hissing sound.

The audience began hissing at the actor who had forgotten his lines.

From the Middle English 'hissen', a frequentative form of 'hiss'.

hissing noise

A sound made by steam or gas escaping under pressure.

hissing sound

A type of sound produced often by serpents or in disapproval.

hissing cat

A defensive posture where a cat makes a hissing sound to warn others.

hiss

To make a sibilant sound.

sibilant

A speech sound with a hissing effect.

whisper

To speak very softly.

To express dissatisfaction or disapproval, especially in a loud crowd.

The audience began hissing during the boring presentation.

To be sneaky or deceptive.

He's been hissing around, trying to figure out the best way to cheat the system.