miaow
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /miːˈaʊ/
US
- /miːˈaʊ/
Description
- cat sound
- cry of a cat
- sound a cat makes
"Miaow" is a way of writing the sound a cat makes. It is also often spelled "meow." People use the word when talking about a cat calling for food, asking for attention, greeting someone, or simply making its presence known.
The word copies the sound itself, so it is often used in stories, especially in books for children. Different cats can sound different, so one miaow may be soft and short while another may be loud, long, or a little rough.
"Miaow" is a word for the sound a cat makes, and it can also be used as a verb meaning to make that sound. It is a common spelling in British English, while "meow" is more common in American English. In both cases, the word is onomatopoeic: it is meant to sound like the noise it describes.
In everyday use, a miaow may suggest many simple things. A cat may miaow to greet someone, ask for food, ask to be let in or out, complain, or seek attention. The exact meaning depends on the situation and on the kind of sound the cat makes. A short, light miaow can feel like a hello, while a longer or repeated one may sound more demanding or upset.
The word is also often used in writing to show a cat "speaking," especially in stories and books for children. So "miaow" is not just the name of a cat's cry; it is also a lively written way to bring that sound into a sentence.
Examples
- 1
Animal sound
We heard a faint miaow coming from behind the shed.
- 2
Cat behavior
The kitten miaowed at the door until Jake let it in.
- 3
Child speech
The toddler pointed at the picture of the cat and said, "Miaow!"
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- miaownounverb