The word "squeaker" is spelled as /ˈskwiːkər/ in IPA transcription. It starts with the voiceless velar fricative /s/ sound, followed by the long vowel /iː/ and the voiceless velar sound /k/. Then it has the schwa sound /ə/ and ends with the voiceless alveolar sound /r/. The spelling of "squeaker" accurately reflects its pronunciation, with the combination of letters "ea" representing the long "ee" sound and the "r" at the end signaling the voiceless alveolar sound.
A "squeaker" is a term primarily used to describe a small object or creature that produces a high-pitched and sharp sound when it is pressed, stepped on, or manipulated in a certain way. This term is often associated with toys or objects that emit a squeaky noise as a result of applying pressure or mechanical action. In the context of toys, squeakers are usually installed inside plush toys, rubber ducks, or other chewable objects, designed to imitate sounds made by animals or objects in the real world. These miniature noise-producing devices amplify the sound to produce an audible "squeak" when squeezed, providing an added element of interactive play for children or pets.
Beyond toys, a "squeaker" can also refer to an animal or bird species that emits a high-pitched, often piercing cry or sound. For example, certain species of birds, such as the eastern screech owl, are known as "squeakers" due to their distinctive high-pitched calls. Additionally, in sports and contests, a "squeaker" can refer to a close and contentious competition where the outcome is determined by a very narrow margin or a last-minute victory, adding an element of excitement or tension to the event. Overall, the term "squeaker" is commonly associated with small noise-making objects, animals or birds that produce high-pitched sounds, or close competitions with narrow margins.
One who squeaks.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "squeaker" originated from the noun "squeak". The term "squeak" is imitative in nature, derived from the sound it represents, namely a high-pitched, shrill noise. "Squeaker" is essentially a diminutive form of "squeak", typically used to describe a small rodent or a small rubber toy that produces a squeaking noise when squeezed. Over time, the term has been more widely adopted to refer to anything that emits a high-pitched sound, including certain birds or a high voice.