plural purrs
1
: the low, soft sound that a cat makes when it is happy
2
: a sound that is like the purr of a cat
the soft purr of a car engine
purrs; purred; purring
1
: to make a purr or a sound like a purr
The cat was purring contentedly in my lap.
The cars were purring along the highway.
The engine purred smoothly.
2
: to say (something) in a soft, low voice especially when you are pleased or trying to persuade someone to do something
"You look tense. Let me buy you a drink," he purred.
Cite this Entry
“Purr.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/purr. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
Copy Citation
