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DictionarycreakHarsh squeaking sound
noun / verb

creak

KREEK/kriːk/

A harsh squeaking sound caused by movement or strain, or to make this sound.

The old door creaks on its rusty hinges as the woman opens it.

A woman slowly opens an old wooden door and winces toward its rusty hinges, visibly linking an unpleasant sound to the door's movement.
Etymology
creakMiddle Englishto utter a harsh cry

Creken imitated a harsh cry rather than combining meaningful roots. Its use later extended to the grating noises made by hinges, floorboards, and joints.

In context

Sleep History99:59
Picture yourself crossing the wooden drawbridge. Two heavy chains creak softly as guards nod in quiet greeting.
The TERRIFYING History of MEDIEVAL Bad Omens | Sleep History

More examples

  • The door opens with a loud creak.
  • My chair keeps creaking whenever I lean back.
  • The branches creaked under the weight of the snow.

Forms

creak · creaks · creaked · creaking

creaky adjective — Making harsh squeaking sounds when moved.

Similar words

squeak
A thin, high-pitched sound, not necessarily harsh or grating.
groan
A lower, deeper sound that can also signal strain.