“Hiss” means to make a long, soft, sharp sound, like a snake or steam escaping from something. It can also describe a sound people make when they are angry, annoyed, or trying to get someone to be quiet.
People use hiss in daily life to talk about both sounds and reactions. For example, a snake may hiss as a warning, or someone in a crowd may hiss at a bad performance. It is also used for things like a leaking pipe or a bottle of soda that makes a soft hissing sound when opened.
Meaning & Usage
Hiss can be a verb or a noun. As a verb, it means to make that sharp, quiet sound. As a noun, it refers to the sound itself. It is often used for snakes, steam, air, or people showing dislike or disapproval.
Examples
The snake began to hiss when it felt threatened.
Steam hissed from the kettle.
Some people hissed at the speaker after the mistake.
Context / Common Use
You will most often hear hiss in descriptions of animals, machines, or strong reactions from people. It usually suggests something sharp, tense, or unfriendly.
Is “hiss” a sound or an action?
It can be both. A hiss is the sound, and to hiss means to make that sound.
Can people hiss?
Yes. People may hiss to show anger, disapproval, or to tell someone to be quiet.
What things commonly hiss?
Snakes, steam, air leaks, and some drinks or machines can all hiss.
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