Creak

/kriːk/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A sharp, high noise made by something creaking.
I heard a creak coming from the attic during the storm.
The sound produced by a surface or structure when it moves or is pressured.
The creak of the boat reminded me of my childhood adventures.
verb
To make a long, high sound, especially when something moves or is moved.
The old floorboards creak whenever I walk across them.
To move slowly and noisily.
The door creaked open as the wind blew.

Etymology

Middle English 'crek', possibly from a Scandinavian source.

Common Phrases and Expressions

creak of doom:
A foreboding sound that suggests something bad is about to happen.
creaking joints:
Refers to the sounds made by aging joints, often indicating stiffness.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To complain subtly or whine.
He always creaks about the workload.
To be overly cautious or hesitant.
Stop creaking and just take the plunge!