# meow

/miˈaʊ/ (US) · /mɪˈaʊ/ (UK) · CEFR A1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/meow
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the sound a cat makes. You use this word to describe the cry of a kitten or a cat when it wants attention or food.

For teachers: the characteristic vocalisation of a domestic cat. Often used to describe a request for attention or food.

## Examples

- The cat gave a loud meow when it saw the food bowl.
- I heard a faint meow coming from the bushes and found a small kitten hiding there.
- While most feline communication is non-verbal, the domestic cat has developed the meow specifically as a way to signal its needs to human companions.

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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.