Pronunciation

/ˈwɪtsəl/

Definitions

Noun

1. A thin, high-pitched sound produced by blowing air through pursed lips, typically used to signal or attract attention.
   • Example: “He blew a sharp whistle to get the children’s attention.”
2. A device that produces this sound, often used for signaling, signaling danger, or as a musical instrument.
   • Example: “The referee blew the whistle to start the game.”

Verb

1. To produce a whistle sound using one’s mouth.
   • Example: “The children whistled a tune while playing outside.”
2. To use a whistle as a signal or to communicate.
   • Example: “The hiker whistled a distress signal to alert rescuers.”

Adjective

1. Characterized by or producing a whistle-like sound.
   • Example: “The wind whistled through the trees.”

Adverb

1. In a whistling manner.
   • Example: “He whistled softly as he worked.”

Phrases

• “Whistle a tune” means to sing or play a melody on a whistle.
• “Whistle-blower” refers to someone who exposes wrongdoing.
• “To whistle past the graveyard” is a colloquial expression meaning to ignore danger or a difficult situation.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The train conductor blew his whistle to warn passengers of an upcoming stop.”
• Verb: “He whistled a happy tune while walking down the street.”
• Adjective: “The wind was so strong that it made a whistle through the open window.”
• Adverb: “She whistled past the challenge, pretending it wasn’t there.”

Synonyms

• Blow (a sound)
• Sound a whistle
• Signal
• Call out
• Proclaim (in a whistle)