WordGarden.iogrowl
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡrˈaʊl/
US
- /ˈɡraʊl/
Meanings
Verb
to make a low rough threatening sound, especially as an animal
to say something in a low rough angry voice
for the stomach to make a low rumbling noise
More meaningsFewer meanings
for a machine or engine to make a low rough rumbling sound
Noun
a low rough threatening animal sound
a low rough angry utterance
Beyond the definition
A growl isn't just something bears do. It's a low, deep sound often used to show anger, give a warning, or sound threatening. Think of a dog growling at a stranger: it's letting them know to back off. But people can do it too, maybe playfully at a friend or in frustration when something is hard. Sometimes even your stomach makes this sound when you're hungry. It's a simple sound that can say a lot without words.
A growl is a low, rumbling sound often linked with anger, warning, or displeasure. It is most often connected with animals like lions, tigers, and dogs, where it can signal that they are ready to defend themselves or their space. But the word is used in more ways than that.
People can growl too. A frustrated mechanic might growl under their breath while trying to loosen a stubborn bolt. A playful parent might growl at their child during a tickle fight, making the moment feel mock-angry and fun. Even your stomach can make a growling sound when it's empty, showing that it needs food.
Context is important. An animal's growl is often a serious warning, while a person's can range from playful teasing to real anger. In stories, growls are often used to build tension and hint that danger is near. The sound itself suggests power and raw instinct.
So whether it's a predator protecting its space, a person showing frustration, or your own body reminding you that it's time to eat, a growl is a strong, instinctive sound that communicates a feeling or need.
Examples
- 1
Animal warning
The dog growled when I tried to take its toy.
- 2
Animal sound
A low growl came from under the table.
- 3
Angry command
"Sit down," the teacher growled.
- 4
Angry speech
She growled at him for waking the baby.
- Patterngrowl at + person
speak to them in a low, angry voice
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Complaining
He kept growling about the delay on the way home.
- Patterngrowl about + problem
complain about it angrily
- 6
Engine sound
The truck’s engine growled as it pulled away.
- 7
Hunger
My stomach started to growl halfway through the meeting.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- growlnounverb
Forms
- growling-ing formverbnoun
- growlspluralnounverb
- growledpast tenseverbnoun