hiss

verb

hissed; hissing; hisses

intransitive verb

: to make a sharp sibilant sound
the crowd hissed in disapproval
hissing steam

transitive verb

1
: to express disapproval of by hissing
hissed the performers off the stage
2
: to utter or whisper angrily or threateningly and with a hiss
hiss noun
hisser noun

Examples of hiss in a Sentence

The radiator hissed as it let off steam. The audience hissed him off the stage. “Leave me alone!” he hissed.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Instead, the show feels like someone took a pin to that inflatable couch — air is constantly hissing out of it. Sara Holdren, Vulture, 24 Oct. 2024 In the original script, there was more of Frodo hissing and arching his back. James Hibberd, The Hollywood Reporter, 28 June 2024 As its hissing güiro, whistling gaitas and lively horns flow through Los Angeles, Noche de Cumbia aims to celebrate its roots, embrace its variations and encourage a night full of dancing. Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 20 Sep. 2024 Some accounts also mention a hissing or crackling sound accompanying the phenomenon, while others report an acrid smell, possibly from ozone or burning materials. Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 19 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hiss 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, of imitative origin

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of hiss was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near hiss

Cite this Entry

“Hiss.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hiss. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

hiss

verb
: to make a long sharp sound like that of the speech sound \s\ or that made by an alarmed animal (as a snake or cat) usually as a sign of disapproval
hissed them off the stage
hiss noun
hisser noun

More from Merriam-Webster on hiss

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!