hiss 1 of 2

1
as in whistle
a sound similar to the speech sound \s\ stretched out the hiss of air escaping from a balloon

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2
as in snort
a vocal sound made to express scorn or disapproval there was a chorus of boos and hisses from the fans when the umpire called the runner out

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hiss

2 of 2

verb

as in to bubble
to make a sound like that of stretching out the speech sound \s\ the frightened kitten hissed at us when we tried to pick it up

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Examples Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of hiss
Verb
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is offering Houstonians and visitors the opportunity to adopt a Madagascar hissing cockroach to express everlasting affection. Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 2 Feb. 2024 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 See all Example Sentences for hiss 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hiss
Noun
  • Saka scored a goal in each half before Kai Havertz got the third two minutes before the final whistle to get the Gunners back to winning ways after Mikel Arteta’s side faltered to a draw against Fulham on Sunday.
    Matias Grez, CNN, 12 Dec. 2024
  • At several points during the game and after the final whistle blew, Grieb was visibly unhappy with how the game was managed.
    Christian Babcock, The Mercury News, 7 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • The book, with illustrations by English artist Hannah Farr, tells the story of how Henri gets bullied in doggie daycare because of his loud snort.
    Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Apr. 2024
  • But back in the late 90s, people could crush the pills, turning a slow-release narcotic into a rapidly acting drug, a snort or injection leading to an intense high.
    Peter Ubel, Forbes, 13 Sep. 2024
Verb
  • Similar opposition bubbled up months later when Biden designated Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni National Monument in Arizona.
    Susan Montoya Bryan, Los Angeles Times, 9 Dec. 2024
  • Normally bubbling with positivity and naivety, Jacob experiences an emotional breakdown in this episode, which revolves around his adversarial relationship with his family during a surprise appearance from his masculine, drone-flying younger brother.
    Andrés Buenahora, Variety, 5 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • The front slanted pockets and back zip pocket can carry wallets, shades, and phones.
    Jaclyn Trop, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2024
  • This genius pair from Merrell zips together for easy transport.
    Lauren Mazzo, Glamour, 10 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Whatever happened to common courtesies in lieu of belittlements, sneers or vilification?
    Armstrong Williams, Baltimore Sun, 3 Nov. 2024
  • The Wilfried Zaha mural at Selhurst Park (The Athletic) What has never changed are the gripes and sneers that have attached themselves to this part of SE25, in the London borough of Croydon, for longer than Palace fans would probably wish to remember.
    Daniel Taylor, The Athletic, 28 Aug. 2024
Verb
  • There are sizeable periods of matches where opponents can defend in a compact shape, safe in the knowledge that United attacks can eventually fizzle out of their own accord.
    Carl Anka, The Athletic, 13 Dec. 2024
  • The decision involving Gattis comes on the heels of an offensive campaign that opened promisingly before fizzling.
    Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 4 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Hadid, in response, cocks her head thoughtfully, stares at Travis, and gives a little smirk.
    Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture, 8 Dec. 2024
  • Think of nervous smiles, insincere smiles, and smirks.
    Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 2 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • Murray crouched down for some extra coaxing of his heave from behind the half-court line, watched the ball sail on track toward the basket and — swish! — struck a pose right in front of the broadcast table.
    Dave Campbell, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 May 2024
  • The actors would get it, take a swig, swish it around their mouth and then spit it out.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 8 Oct. 2024

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Cite this Entry

“Hiss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hiss. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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