Synonyms for

Whistle

Verb / ˈwɪsʌl / / ˈhwɪsʌl / Another word for whistle — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to make a high-pitched sound by forcing breath through a small hole between one's lips or teeth

Synonyms & similar words

pennywhistle sing whistling tinwhistle blow toot pipe sound warble tweet trill chirp pucker puff breathe hiss screech squeak whine cry yell shout scream sing

Synonyms by register

Formal

hiss whistleblower

Informal

hoot toot pipe

Literary

siren flute

Antonyms

silence quiet mute stillness hush

Common collocations

  • blow a whistle
  • whistle a tune
  • train whistle
  • police whistle
  • whistle stop
  • whistle down the wind
  • whistle in the dark

Word family

noun whistle
verb whistle
adjective whistling

Usage note

The verb 'whistle' can refer to making a sound with the lips or through an instrument. 'Whistleblower' is a specific noun for someone who reports illegal or unethical activity.

Example sentences

  1. I whistle a tune when I'm happy.
  2. The referee blew his whistle to start the game.
  3. I can't whistle very well.
  4. The bird outside my window is whistling a beautiful song.
  5. My dad taught me how to whistle with my fingers.

Quotes

  • I whistle a happy tune, and every single time the happiness in the tune convinces me that I'm happy.
  • A whistling woman and a crowing hen never come to a good end.
  • The only way to get rid of temptation is to yield to it... I can resist everything but temptation.

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