Definitions for: Hiss


[n] a cry or noise made to express displeasure or contempt
[n] a fricative sound (especially as an expression of disapproval); "the performers could not be heard over the hissing of the audience"
[v] show displeasure, as after a performance or speech
[v] make a sharp hissing sound, as if to show disapproval
[v] express or utter with a hiss
[v] move with a whooshing sound



Webster (1913) Definition: Hiss v. i. [imp. & p. p. Hissed; p. pr. & vb. n.
Hissing.] [AS. hysian; prob. of imitative origin?; cf. LG.
hissen, OD. hisschen.]
1. To make with the mouth a prolonged sound like that of the
letter s, by driving the breath between the tongue and the
teeth; to make with the mouth a sound like that made by a
goose or a snake when angered; esp., to make such a sound
as an expression of hatred, passion, or disapproval.

The merchants among the people shall hiss at thee.
--Ezek. xxvii.
36.

2. To make a similar noise by any means; to pass with a
sibilant sound; as, the arrow hissed as it flew.

Shod with steel, We hissed along the polished ice.
--Wordsworth.


Hiss, v. t.
1. To condemn or express contempt for by hissing.

If the tag-rag people did not clap him and hiss him,
according as he pleased and displeased them. --Shak.

Malcolm. What is the newest grief? Ros. That of an
hour's age doth hiss the speaker. --Shak.

2. To utter with a hissing sound.

The long-necked geese of the world that are ever
hissing dispraise. --Tennyson.


Hiss, n.
1. A prolonged sound like that letter s, made by forcing out
the breath between the tongue and teeth, esp. as a token
of disapprobation or contempt.

``Hiss'' implies audible friction of breath
consonants. --H. Sweet.

A dismal, universal hiss, the sound Of public scorn.
--Milton.

2. Any sound resembling that above described; as:
(a) The noise made by a serpent.

But hiss for hiss returned with forked tongue.
--Milton.
(b) The note of a goose when irritated.
(c) The noise made by steam escaping through a narrow
orifice, or by water falling on a hot stove.

Synonyms: bird, boo, boo, Bronx cheer, hissing, hoot, raspberry, razzing, sibilate, sibilation, siss, sizz, snort, whoosh

Antonyms: acclaim, applaud, clap, spat

See Also: call, condemn, cry, emit, go, let loose, let out, locomote, mouth, move, noise, outcry, shout, speak, talk, travel, utter, verbalise, verbalize, vociferation, yell

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