# hiss

/ˈhɪs/ (US) · /hˈɪs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hiss
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a sharp sound like a long 's' that people or animals make. You might hear it from a snake, a cat, or steam escaping from a pipe.

For teachers: a sharp, sibilant sound produced by the forced passage of breath through a narrow opening. Often associated with the vocalisation of snakes or the escape of pressurised gas.

## Examples

- The cat gave a loud hiss when the dog approached.
- A steady hiss from the radiator suggested that a small amount of steam was escaping through a leak.
- The audience's initial silence soon gave way to a low hiss of disapproval as the controversial speaker took the stage to defend his latest policy proposal.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the verb 'give' or 'let out'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.