whimper
WIM-puhr
/ˈwɪmpər/
To make a series of low, feeble sounds expressive of fear, pain, or discontent.
Suggests vulnerability, helplessness, or mild distress. It is a softer, more pathetic sound than a bark or a howl.
The story behind the word. Originating in the 16th century, 'whimper' is an imitative word. It was created to mimic the actual low, vibrating sound of a whining child or dog. It is closely related to the German word 'wimmern', which means the same thing.
Word relationships
- whine: 'Whine' is often higher-pitched and can sound annoying or demanding, whereas 'whimper' sounds genuinely sad, cold, or frightened.
- cry: 'Cry' is a broad term for vocalizing distress, while 'whimper' specifically describes low, broken, quiet sounds.
- bellow: To emit a deep, loud, powerful roar or cry.
Commonly confused with
- whisper: 'Whisper' is quiet human speech using breath rather than vocal cords, while 'whimper' is a vocal sound of distress.
Word family
- whimpered (verb): Past tense of whimper.
- whimpering (noun): The action or sound of making whimpers.
Collocations
- soft whimper
- whimper in pain
- let out a whimper
Example sentences
- "The puppy began to whimper softly at the door when its owner left for work." A dog waiting for its owner
- "This is the way the world ends, not with a bang but a whimper." A famous poetic ending (T.S. Eliot, The Hollow Men)
Memory hook
Think of a 'wimp' who is scared and starts to whimper. A wimp whimpers. Low sound of sadness
When not to use
Do not use 'whimper' to describe loud, aggressive, or demanding vocalizations; use 'yelp', 'howl', or 'bark' instead.
Fun facts
- In canine body language, a whimper is often used to signal submission, a desire for attention, or physical discomfort to other members of the pack.
Related words
Also appears in
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