What does whinnying mean?
Whinnying describes the high-pitched, resonant sound made by a horse, comparable to a neigh but often more drawn out or expectant. As a verb, it means that a horse is making this sound: a horse may be whinnying at a gate, calling to its rider, or responding to another horse. As a noun, whinnying refers to the sound itself or the act of producing it. The word is particularly vivid because it captures both the distinctive quality of equine vocalization and the animal’s apparent desire for attention or contact. It occurs in British and American English and is especially common in narrative writing, where the sound helps convey a stable, paddock, or rural setting. Although whinny is the more usual everyday verb, whinnying is effective when the prolonged sound or repeated vocalization needs emphasis.
To make a high-pitched, horse-like sound, especially as a means of calling, seeking attention, or expressing excitement.
"The stallion whinnied when he heard the familiar sound of the feed bucket."
This is the present participle and gerund form of whinny.
The high-pitched vocalization of a horse, or the act of making such a sound.
"A cheerful whinnying greeted her as she entered the stable."
The noun use is less common than the verb use and is often used descriptively.
A horse does not merely neigh; when it whinnies, it turns excitement or impatience into a high, ringing call.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of whinnying
The base verb whinny derives from Old English hwinnan, an imitative word for a high-pitched sound, and is related to the English word whine. Its development reflects the tendency of English to preserve vivid imitative sounds through changing spelling and usage. The present participle and gerund form whinnying was formed by adding the usual -ing ending.
Related word forms
How whinnying is actually used
The word is most common in descriptive and literary contexts. The verb form is more frequent than the noun form, and it often suggests a horse calling or seeking attention.
Easily confused with whinnying
Whinnying specifically describes the high-pitched vocalization of a horse, whereas whining more commonly describes a complaint or a sustained complaining sound.