Hiss
/hɪs/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo make a sharp, prolonged sibilant sound, typically expressing disapproval, warning, or annoyance.
/hɪs/
To make a prolonged sibilant sound like that of a snake or escaping steam.
The steam from the radiator hissed softly.
💡 Simply: When you make a 'hiss' sound, like a snake, you're either showing you're not happy, warning someone, or something is letting out air.
👶 For kids: Like a snake making a "ssssss" sound!
More Examples
The audience hissed at the referee's decision.
I heard the tires hiss as the car skidded on the wet road.
How It's Used
"The snake hissed at the approaching intruder."
"The audience hissed at the villain during the play."
The act or sound of hissing.
/hɪs/
A sibilant sound made by or resembling that made by a snake or escaping steam.
The snake gave a sharp hiss.
💡 Simply: A 'hiss' is the sound that a snake or something like steam makes.
👶 For kids: The "sssss" sound.
More Examples
The hiss of the air conditioner was annoying.
She heard the soft hiss of the water boiling.
How It's Used
"We heard the hiss of the tires on the wet pavement."
"The hiss of the wind through the trees created an eerie atmosphere."
Idioms & expressions
hiss and boo
Express strong disapproval or derision (usually to an audience).
"The politicians expected to be hissed and booed if they showed up."
From Middle English hissen, probably imitative of the sound.
The word has been used since the Middle Ages, primarily to describe a sibilant sound similar to that of a snake.
Memory tip
Imagine a snake, ready to strike, making a 'hiss' sound.