Whistle

/wˈɪsə‍l/

/ˈhwɪsəɫ/, /ˈwɪsəɫ/

Definition & Meaning of "whistle"

to whistle

VERB

to make a high-pitched sound by forcing air out through one's partly closed lips

Intransitive

Example

The boy learned how to whistle by watching his grandfather.

She could n't help but whistle in amazement at the breathtaking view.

He whistled loudly to get the dog's attention from across the park.

to produce a sharp, high-pitched sound

Intransitive

Example

The kettle began to whistle as the water reached boiling point.

She could hear the train whistle from miles away, signaling its arrival.

The children listened intently as the owl whistled in the distance.

to blow a whistle as a signal to alert or command attention

Intransitive: to whistle for sb

Example

He whistled for the waiter to bring the check after finishing dinner.

She quickly whistled for the team to start the play.

She whistled for her friends to come and join her at the picnic table.

to create a melody or song by producing a high-pitched sound through whistling

Transitive: to whistle a melody or tune

Example

He began to whistle a cheerful tune while walking down the street.

Sarah whistled a catchy melody while doing household chores.

John could n't contain his excitement and started to whistle a happy tune.

to create a sharp, high-pitched sound by moving quickly through a narrow opening or air

Example

The wind whistled through the cracks in the window, making the house feel cold.

As the arrow flew by, it whistled through the air, signaling its speed.

The bullet whistled past his ear, narrowly missing him.

Whistle

NOUN

an inexpensive fipple flute

the act of signalling (e.g., summoning) by whistling or blowing a whistle

a device mounted on locomotives and some railcars that emits a loud, high-pitched sound to signal warnings or communicate with personnel and other trains

What is a "whistle"?

A whistle is a device mounted on locomotives and some railcars that produces a loud, high-pitched sound. It is typically used by the train’s engineer to alert people and vehicles near the tracks of the approaching train, especially at crossings or in areas with limited visibility. Whistles can also be used to signal specific actions, like starting or stopping, or to communicate with other trains. The sound of a train whistle is an important safety tool, helping to prevent accidents by giving warnings in advance.

Example

The engineer sounded the whistle to alert workers on the tracks of the approaching train.

During the night, the piercing whistle could be heard from miles away, signaling the train's presence.

The loud whistle echoed through the valley, announcing the arrival of the freight train.

a small, handheld device used to produce a high-pitched sound when blown into, often used for communication, signaling, or as a toy for play and fun

What is a "whistle"?

A whistle is a small, handheld device that produces a high-pitched sound when air is blown through it. It is typically made from plastic or metal and has a small opening or a ball inside that creates the sound. Whistles are commonly used to get attention, signal a start or stop, or in sports for communication. They are often used in games, activities, and safety situations. Whistles can vary in pitch and tone, depending on their design, and are popular for their simplicity and loud, clear sound.

Example

The referee blew the whistle to stop the game after a foul was committed.

She carried a whistle with her while hiking in case of emergencies.

The tea kettle began to whistle loudly as the water inside reached boiling point.

the sound made by something moving rapidly or by steam coming out of a small aperture