The phrase "not let out a peep" means to remain completely silent. The spelling of "peep" is /piːp/, with the long vowel sound represented by the double "ee" and the "p" sound clearly pronounced. The past tense of this phrase becomes "not let out a peeped", which is spelled /piːpt/. The "-ed" suffix indicates the past tense and is pronounced with a separate syllable, as in /t/ sound at the end.
The phrase "not let out a peep" is an idiom that means to remain completely silent or make no sound at all. It implies complete silence and the absence of any noise, especially in situations where one would typically expect vocalization or noise.
The word "peeped" in this context refers to a soft or faint sound, often associated with small animals, birds, or young children. It can also denote a quiet or muffled sound made by someone, such as a whispered or hushed word. Therefore, "not let out a peep" can imply a refusal or inability to make even the slightest noise, regardless of the reason.
The phrase is commonly used to depict situations where someone is intentionally trying to remain silent, either out of fear, caution, or sheer determination. It can be applied to both humans and animals, emphasizing the complete absence of any sound. For example, in a suspenseful movie scene, a character may hide from danger and "not let out a peep" to avoid detection. Similarly, a child who is trying not to laugh during a serious moment might be described as "not letting out a peep."
Overall, "not let out a peep" suggests complete and deliberate silence, emphasizing the absence of any sound or vocalization in a given situation.