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yelp

yelp

42 2.8
A short, high sound like a dog makes when hurt or surprised
  • noun
  • /jɛlp/
translation icon : grito
  • As he did so, the ageless dog gave a yelp and doubled backward, tail between his legs.

Examples

  • We have weight limits, you know. Blue's yelp was now one of protest.

    Fiction book (1990)
  • On the white beach of the island, a yelp broke the silence.

    Fiction book (1992)
  • When the light switched on, she stifled a yelp and covered her eyes in defense.

    Fiction book (1999)
  • The creature landed with a yelp and managed to drag itself a few feet before it collapsed.

    Fiction book (1991)
  • As soon as she said the word "callback," I let out a yelp of glee.

    Fiction book (2000)
  • All at once, Emily let out a yelp and plunged into a tangle of honeysuckle.

    Fiction book (1992)
  • Tate grabbed the tractor to hoist himself and let out a yelp of pain.

    Fiction book (1995)
  • "The little boy began to cry, wailing yelps as he tugged on his mother's unresponsive hand.

    Fiction book (2000)
  • Simultaneously, Hana is swung up into the air, her startled yelp echoing around the church.

    Fiction book (1996)
  • The child let out a loud yelp when he accidentally stepped on a toy.

Synonyms

cry
vsyelp
142 1.0

A loud call that an animal or person makes

is specifically a short high-pitched bark or pain sound
shriek
vsyelp
43 2.7

A loud high sound showing fear, pain or excitement

is shorter and sharper, often less loud
squeal
vsyelp
34 2.9

A long, high sound showing pain, fear, or strong excitement

is short and sharp rather than long and drawn out
yip
vsyelp
22 7.6

A short, high bark made by a small dog or puppy

is broader, also used for short cries of pain or excitement
ruff
vsyelp
10 5.3

A short sharp sound a dog makes when it barks once

is higher pitched and used for pain or excitement
yelping
vsyelp
5 2.6

A short high sound a dog makes when it is hurt or afraid

is the same meaning but appears as the -ing form

Antonyms

660 2.0

A period with no sound or speech

How High-Pitched

scream
596 1.0
to shriek
72 2.9
to yap
1 5.2
yelp
42 2.8
bark
69 1.0
growl
76 1.6

Surface Forms

yelp singular
yelps plural

Etymology

Yelp comes from an old sound word that copies a short, sharp cry, so you can remember it as a small, high yell. A yelp is therefore a quick, high-pitched cry or bark used to show pain or surprise.