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DictionarygrowlLow, rough sound
noun / verb

growl

GROWL/ɡraʊl/

A low, rough rumbling sound, or to make such a sound.

The dog gives a low growl when someone approaches the gate.

A tense dog growling defensively, with a slightly opened mouth, lifted upper lip, exposed canine teeth, flattened ears and raised hackles.
Etymology
growlOld Frenchto rumble

The ancestor meant “to rumble,” connecting growling with a low, rolling sound. The word is probably ultimately imitative, echoing the noise it names.

In context

Storytime Haven449:45
Suddenly Nino growled without moving, the ominous low growl of a dog that can kill, and Ercole growled at him in turn, making a sound intended to impose silence.
📖 Whosoever Shall Offend ✨ by F. Marion Crawford

More examples

  • My stomach growls when I skip breakfast.
  • The motorcycle's engine starts with a deep growl.
  • "Leave me alone," he growled without looking up.

Forms

growl · growls · growled · growling

growly adjective — Low and rough like a growl.

Similar words

rumble
A deep, rolling sound, not necessarily harsh or threatening.
snarl
Usually sharper and more openly angry than a growl.