Catcall - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

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SKIP TO CONTENT catcall /ˌkætˈkɔl/ /ˈkætkɔl/ IPA guide

Other forms: catcalls; catcalling; catcalled

Boooo! Hisss! Come on ref! Are you blind?! Those are just a few family-friendly catcalls, or rowdy cries of disapproval.

Next time you're stuck watching a terrible movie, don't throw rotten tomatoes at the screen. Try a catcall instead. The impassioned taunts and disapproving shouts are already a staple at sporting events across the globe. They're also a favorite among construction workers, who like to whistle at and catcall the ladies walking by. Which, by the way, is totally inappropriate.

Definitions of catcall

noun a cry expressing disapproval see moresee less type of: call, cry, outcry, shout, vociferation, yell a loud utterance; often in protest or opposition
noun a loud whistle or suggestive comment made to someone passing by see moresee less type of: utterance, vocalization the use of uttered sounds for auditory communication
verb utter catcalls at see moresee less type of: deride treat or speak of with contempt
verb whistle or make a suggestive comment to someone passing by see moresee less type of: emit, let loose, let out, utter express audibly; utter sounds (not necessarily words)

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Copy citation DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘catcall'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback Word Family

Vocabulary lists containing catcall

Our Town Thornton Wilder

In this Pulitzer Prize-winning play, many characters, including a Stage Manager who takes on several roles, use imaginary props and pantomime to portray life and death in the small town of Grover's Corners, New Hampshire.

Flowers for Algernon Daniel Keyes

Charlie Gordon goes through an experimental treatment to increase his intelligence, with unexpected and ultimately tragic results.

The Magician's Nephew C.S. Lewis

In this prequel set before The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer are forced by a magician to be his test subjects for rings created to travel between worlds.

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