whistle
UK: ˈwɪs.əl | US: ˈwɪs.əl
n. a clear, high-pitched sound made by forcing breath through a small hole between the lips or teeth
vi. to produce such a sound with the mouth or a device
vt. to produce a signal or tune by whistling
whistle = whist<to hiss or whisper> + le<frequentative verb suffix>
- whist<to hiss or whisper>: From Old English hwistlian, imitative of the sound of blowing air.
- le<frequentative verb suffix>: A suffix indicating repeated or habitual action (common in Old English).
Etymology Origin:
The word whistle originates from Old English hwistlian, an onomatopoeic term mimicking the sound of air passing through a narrow opening. Over time, the hw- softened to wh-, and the -le suffix reinforced the idea of a repeated action (e.g., sparkle, crackle). Though its structure is simple, the word’s evolution reflects its auditory inspiration—a direct link between sound and meaning.
The referee blew the whistle to stop the game.
She whistled a cheerful tune while walking.
The wind whistled through the cracks in the window.
He gave a low whistle of surprise.
Birds whistled in the trees at dawn.