The word "caterwauls" is spelled with a "c" followed by "a-t-e-r-w-a-u-l-s". In IPA phonetic transcription, this would be pronounced /ˈkætərˌwɔlz/. The first syllable "cat" is pronounced with the short "a" sound /æ/ and the "t" is pronounced /t/. The second syllable "er" is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/, followed by the "wauls" part which is pronounced with the diphthong /aʊ/. The word means to make a harsh noise like a cat yowling or wailing.
Caterwauls is a noun in its plural form, derived from the verb "caterwaul". It refers to loud and unpleasant wailing, screeching, or howling sounds made by cats or other animals. The term can also be extended to describe harsh and discordant noises produced by humans, often used to express frustration, dissatisfaction, or a sense of distress.
The term "caterwauls" encompasses the idea of intense and chaotic sounds that are grating to the ears, causing discomfort or annoyance to those who hear them. These sounds are often associated with the mating calls or fights of cats, which are characterized by their piercing and mournful qualities.
However, "caterwauls" can also be metaphorically used to describe any unpleasant and discordant noises created by people. This can include the high-pitched, screeching notes of a musical instrument played without skill or the shrill voices of individuals engaged in a heated argument or quarrel. In this context, the term highlights the piercing and jarring nature of the sounds, emphasizing their unpleasant and disruptive effect on those who hear them.
Overall, "caterwauls" refers to a category of loud and strident noises produced by animals or humans that are characterized by their unpleasant and discordant qualities, generating a sense of discomfort, annoyance, or distress.
The word "caterwauls" is derived from Middle English "caterwawen", which was formed by combining two elements: "cater" and "waul".
1. "Cater" comes from the Old Norse word "kǫttr", meaning "tomcat" or "male cat". This word is related to the Old English word "catt", which evolved into the modern English word "cat".
2. "Waul" is an onomatopoeic word, imitating the sound of a cat, particularly a female cat, making loud and mournful cries. This word has Germanic origins and is related to the Old High German word "walēn", meaning "to wail" or "to lament".