What does squeakily mean?
Squeakily is an adverb describing an action performed with a high-pitched, thin, squeaky sound. It is commonly used with words such as “speak,” “laugh,” “ask,” and “reply,” especially when a person's voice is unusually high, nervous, or strained. The adverb can also describe physical sounds, such as a hinge opening squeakily or a small animal making a faint noise. Its connotation varies with context: it may neutrally identify the quality of a sound, but it can also imply that the sound is comical, exaggerated, or irritating. Squeakily is formed from the adjective “squeaky,” itself related to the verb “squeak.” Although not common, the word is useful when the manner or quality of a sound needs specific emphasis rather than a general description such as “loudly” or “sharply.”
adverbIn a squeaky manner; with a high-pitched, thin sound.
- In a high-pitched, thin, or squeaky manner.
"The child spoke squeakily when she became nervous."
"The old hinges creaked as the door opened squeakily."
"She answered the telephone squeakily and the listener struggled to hear her."
Squeakily is the word for a sound so high-pitched it seems to come from a very small space.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does squeakily come from?
The word is formed from the adjective “squeaky,” which comes from the English verb “squeak.” “Squeak” is an imitative formation reflecting a high-pitched noise and has been used in English since the medieval period. The adverbial suffix “-ly” was added to “squeaky” to indicate that an action occurred in that manner.
Related word forms
How squeakily is actually used
Usually describes a voice or sound that is high-pitched and thin. It may suggest that the sound is comical, strained, or slightly unpleasant to hear.