Meaning & use
catcall
Last updated
A loud, jeering shout, or an unwanted, sexually suggestive comment shouted at someone in public.
See it in a sentence
The comedian was met with catcalls and boos after his weak opening joke.
She was tired of walking past the construction site and hearing catcalls from workers.
A note on using this word
Originally referring to a shrill whistle imitating a cat's cry used to express disapproval at a performance, the word later took on the specific meaning of street harassment.
Words with a similar meaning
jeerheckle
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
applausecheer
Another way to use it
2. verb
To make such a shout or comment toward someone.
Men catcalled her from across the street as she walked home.
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