ENGLISH
REFERENCE

whistles

n. countable
A2 Elementary US //ˈhwɪsəɫz// UK //wˈɪsəlz// whis·tles

n. small tools that make a loud, high sound when you blow air through them. People use them to get attention or signal the start of a game.

n. instruments designed to produce a shrill, high-pitched sound by means of a forced breath or steam. Often used as signaling devices in sports, policing, or maritime contexts.


SIMPLE

The referee blows his whistle to stop the game.

CONTEXTUAL

The factory workers knew it was time for their lunch break when the steam whistles began to blow.

COMPLEX

In the dense fog of the harbor, the rhythmic sounding of ship whistles serves as a vital auditory warning to prevent collisions between vessels.

Synonyms
Usage

The plural form of 'whistle'; can also refer to the high-pitched sounds themselves.

Idioms2 entries

© 2026 English Reference