whistle

²whistle

verb

whis·tledwhis·tling\-s(ə-)liŋ\

Definition of WHISTLE

intransitive verb

1

a : to utter a shrill clear sound by blowing or drawing air through the puckered lips b : to utter a shrill note or call resembling a whistle c : to make a shrill clear sound especially by rapid movement <the wind whistled> d : to blow or sound a whistle

2

a : to give a signal or issue an order or summons by or as if by whistling b : to make a demand without result <he did a sloppy job, so he can whistle for his money>

transitive verb

1

a : to send, bring, signal, or call by or as if by whistling b : to charge (as a basketball or hockey player) with an infraction

2

: to produce, utter, or express by whistling <whistle a tune>

— whis·tle·able \-sə-lə-bəl\ adjective

— whistle in the dark

: to keep up one's courage by or as if by whistling

Examples of WHISTLE

1. He was whistling as he walked down the street.
2. He whistled for a cab.
3. He whistled a happy tune.
4. The teakettle started to whistle.
5. A bullet whistled past him.

First Known Use of WHISTLE

before 12th century