Word of the Day: Squeal

squeal

squeal / skwēl

noun

1. a loud, piercing high-pitched cry or noise

Everything had happened at once–the blow, the counter-blow, the squeal of agony from the porcupine, the big cat’s squall of sudden hurt and astonishment.

From “White Fang” by Jack London, 1876 – 1916

verb

1. to make a loud, piercing high-pitched cry or noise

It does not always rain when a pig squeals.

American Proverb

2. (slang) to betray a secret or to inform against someone else

They shared too many secrets in common for Nell to squeal.

From “The Lady Doc” by Caroline Lockhart, 1871 – 1962

3. (slang) to complain or object loudly

Again I repeat, play the game, play it to the last finish, but for goodness’ sake don’t squeal when you get hurt.

From “The Strength of the Strong” by Jack London, 1876 – 1916