Pronunciation: [ɡˈɜːɡə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "gurgle" is spelled with a "g" followed by a "u" and an "r", which represent the consonant sounds at the beginning of the word. The second syllable of the word contains a long "u" sound represented by the letter "u" followed by a "g" and an "l", which represent the consonant sounds at the end of the word. The IPA transcription for "gurgle" is /ˈɡɜːɡl̩/, reflecting the pronunciation of the word in English.
The term "gurgle" refers to a verb describing a bubbling or gurgling sound produced by a liquid. This unique sound emerges when a liquid, typically water or a viscous substance, is moving or flowing unevenly. It can be characterized by a series of intermittent and irregular small bubbles. The gurgling sound itself often has a soothing, rhythmic quality that is distinct and easily recognizable.
In addition to the sound it produces, "gurgle" can also be used as a noun to refer to the act or instance of producing such a sound. This can occur naturally in various settings, such as when water flows through a narrow passage or when a baby drinks milk from a bottle. Moreover, gurgling can be intentionally created for artistic or entertainment purposes, such as using a musical instrument, toy, or sound effects to simulate the soothing or playful sound.
The word can also be figuratively applied in non-sonic contexts, metaphorically describing a low, bubbling noise, to evoke a similar sense of pleasant or comforting resonance. Moreover, "gurgle" may occasionally be utilized to depict the action or behavior of some natural phenomena, such as the movement or flow of a gently winding river, which can be seen as resembling the rhythmic and soothing quality that characterizes the sound of "gurgle". Overall, "gurgle" serves as an onomatopoeic expression used to describe both the sound and action of a liquid flowing or moving unevenly, known for its distinctive and often calming resonance.
To flow with an irregular noise, as water in a stream or from a bottle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word gurgle comes from the Middle English word gorgelen and the Old French word gorgouiller, both of which meant to gurgle or to make a bubbling sound. These words were derived from the Latin word gurgulio, which referred to the throat or gullet. Ultimately, the Latin word can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root gwer, meaning to swallow, which is also related to words like gulp and gorge.
