meow

[ mee-ou, myou ]

noun

1. the characteristic sound a cat makes.
2. a spiteful or catty remark.

verb (used without object)

1. to make the sound of a cat.
2. to make a spiteful or catty remark.

meow

/ mjaʊl; mjaʊ; mɪˈaʊl; mɪˈaʊ /

verb

1. intr (of a cat) to make a characteristic crying sound

interjection

1. an imitation of this sound

Word History and Origins

Origin of meow¹

First recorded in 1870–75; imitative

Example Sentences

Because “dogs bark, cats meow and the Right wing candidate wins Conservative leadership races with the members” as one member of Team Jenrick puts it.

From BBC

“Even his sister, from the safety of the screen door of the trailer, meowed for him.”

From Los Angeles Times

The study also suggested that a cat’s meows and other vocalizations are greatly misinterpreted and that people should consider both vocal and visual cues to try to determine what’s going on with their pets.

From New York Times

A cat meowing for Hellmann’s mayonnaise, Peyton Manning chucking Bud Light beers to patrons in a bar and Kris Jenner stacking Oreo cookies.

From New York Times

The laidback kitty can usually be found meowing orders or napping on the job in the boat's cockpit.

From BBC