Pronunciation: [wˈɔːlz] (IPA) 
The word "wauls" may present some challenge when it comes to spelling. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /wɔlz/, which is pronounced as "wawls". It is a plural form of the verb "waul", which means to make a long, mournful howl or cry like that of a cat or a wolf. Though its spelling may not be intuitive, mastering its phonetic transcription can help improve your spelling of this word.
"Wauls" is a verb that primarily refers to the act of producing a long, mournful, and often high-pitched cry or howl. It is usually associated with animals, particularly cats or other feline species, when they emit a sound to express distress, pain, or a strong desire for something. The term can also be employed to describe a human moaning or crying in a similar manner to express sorrow, anguish, or desperation.
The word "wauls" is derived from the Middle English term "waulen," which meant to wail or lament. It shares etymological roots with the Old Norse "vala," meaning to wail or howl. The contemporary usage of "wauls" typically involves a sustained and plaintive vocalization that is distinctive and recognizable.
The utterance of "wauls" by animals most commonly occurs during periods of estrus or mating calls as a way to attract potential mates. Additionally, it can also be heard as a form of territorial aggression or to indicate discomfort or hunger. The vocalizations can vary in intensity, tone, and duration, depending on the specific species and circumstances.
In literature and poetry, "wauls" may be used metaphorically to describe other sounds that resemble the mournful cries of animals or humans, such as the wailing wind or the plaintive sound of a distant siren. Overall, "wauls" captures the essence of a sorrowful and intense vocalization that carries emotional depth and resonance.
The word "wauls" is a verb form derived from the noun "waul", which is an archaic dialectal variant of the word "yowl". The origin of "waul" can be traced back to Middle English, where it was spelled as "waulen" or "wealen", ultimately derived from the Old English word "gēowlan". Interestingly, the Old English root "gēowlan" itself is related to the Proto-Germanic word "geulaną", meaning "to roar" or "to yell". Over time, "waul" evolved into "yowl" in most dialects, but it still persists in some regional varieties and as a poetic or archaic usage.
