Part of Speech

Verb, Noun

Pronunciation

/hɪs/

Definitions

• Verb (intransitive): To make a sharp, sibilant sound like that of a snake or steam escaping. Example: "The snake hissed in warning."
• Verb (transitive): To express disapproval, contempt, or anger by making a hissing sound. Example: "The audience hissed at the actor's poor performance."
• Noun: A sharp, sibilant sound, often made by animals, steam, or humans expressing disapproval. Example: "There was a loud hiss from the audience when the villain appeared."

Usage Examples

• The snake hissed loudly as it slithered away.
• He hissed at the unfair decision, expressing his displeasure.
• There was a collective hiss from the crowd when the referee made a controversial call.

Etymology

The word "hiss" is onomatopoeic in nature, originating from the late 14th century. It imitates the sibilant sound made by snakes, steam, and other similar sources. The verb form has been used since the early 16th century, while the noun form followed shortly after. The word is rooted in the Middle English "hissen," which came from the Old French "hisser," meaning to hiss or make a similar sound.

Synonyms

• Whisper
• Sibilate
• Fizzle
• Growl
• Snarl

Antonyms

• Cheer
• Applaud
• Shout
• Clap
• Celebrate

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "hiss" remains consistent in English, though slight regional differences may occur in emphasis. Non-native speakers may pronounce the word with a softer 's' sound, while native English speakers typically produce a sharp, clear 's.' In some cultures, particularly in British English, a slight variation in tone or stress can be observed when the word is used to express disapproval.

Historical Usage

The term "hiss" has been used to describe the sound made by snakes, as well as steam or escaping air, since the 14th century. Its use as a verb for expressing disapproval developed later in the 16th century. The action of hissing has often been associated with the desire to deter or warn, particularly in animals. Over time, the word has extended to human usage, particularly in theaters or crowds where disapproval is expressed audibly.

Cultural Nuances

Hissing, while often used in the context of animals like snakes, has taken on a significant cultural meaning. In many cultures, hissing is an expression of disapproval or contempt, especially in performance contexts such as theater. In some traditions, a hiss can also be a sign of warning or intimidation, as seen in animals. Additionally, the act of hissing has been depicted as a symbol of rebellion or challenge, particularly in political or social movements.

More Information

The hissing sound is typically produced when air is forced through a narrow opening, creating a high-pitched, sibilant noise. In nature, this noise is often associated with certain animals, such as snakes, which use it as a warning mechanism. In human culture, the hiss has evolved to become a common expression of disapproval or derision. The ability to mimic such sounds in language adds a layer of expressiveness, which has been adopted across cultures to communicate a range of emotional responses, from anger to surprise.