Synonyms for

Yelp

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

Definition

to give a sharp, high-pitched cry, especially of pain or alarm

Synonyms & similar words

yip yelping yap bark howl squeal whimper cry shriek scream yell screech squawk holler roar snarl growl wail moan whine sob shout call

Synonyms by register

Formal

cry out exclaim utter a sharp cry

Informal

squawk yip howl whimper

Literary

shriek wail cry

Antonyms

cheer sing murmur whisper coo purr

Common collocations

  • yelp in pain
  • yelp in surprise
  • a sharp yelp
  • a sudden yelp
  • yelp with fear
  • yelp at the dog

Word family

noun yelp
verb yelp

Usage note

Primarily used to describe a short, sharp cry of pain, fear, or excitement, often associated with animals or children. Can also be used metaphorically for a sudden, sharp exclamation.

Example sentences

  1. The dog let out a yelp when the cat scratched him.
  2. I heard a yelp from the woods and knew something was wrong.
  3. The child gave a yelp of excitement when he saw the ice cream truck.
  4. The injured bird let out a yelp when we tried to pick it up.
  5. The singer's high note was like a yelp in the middle of the song.

Quotes

  • "I heard a yelp and looked up to see a hawk flying away with a mouse in its talons." - Sarah Dessen
  • "The fox yelps, the owl screams, the wildcat caterwauls." - Oliver Goldsmith
  • "The yelp of a dog, the blare of a brass band, and a French ambulance siren - all at once." - Ernest Hemingway

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