squawk
UK: skwɔːk | US: skwɔːk
n. a loud, harsh, or shrill cry (typically made by a bird or person)
vi. to utter a loud, harsh cry
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"Squawk" is an onomatopoeic word, imitating the sharp, grating sound made by birds (e.g., parrots, seagulls) or humans in protest or alarm. First recorded in the early 19th century, it reflects the direct vocal imitation of such sounds, common in English for animal noises (e.g., "quack," "hoot"). Its abrupt, guttural quality mirrors the sound itself, with the "squ-" suggesting intensity and "-awk" echoing the sharp cry.
The parrot let out a loud squawk when the cat approached.
Seagulls squawked overhead as they fought for scraps of food.
He squawked in protest when his idea was rejected.
The radio emitted a sudden squawk of static.
Chickens squawked wildly when the fox entered the coop.