purr

verb
UK: /pɜː/
US: /pɝː/

  1. To make a soft, vibrating sound like a cat when it is happy.

    1. The cat began to purr when I stroked its back.
    2. I could hear the kitten purr contentedly as it nestled in my lap, a sound of pure comfort.

  2. To talk in a low, soft, and gentle voice, often to express pleasure or affection.

    1. She began to purr sweet nothings into his ear.
    2. The actress began to purr her gratitude to the director, her voice full of affected warmth.

  3. To make a low, continuous, rhythmic sound, like an engine running smoothly.

    1. The engine of the old car began to purr.
    2. The powerful motorcycle purred smoothly as it accelerated down the highway, a testament to its well-maintained engine.

Synonyms

hum drone murmur
purr noun

  1. A soft, vibrating sound made by a cat to show pleasure.

    1. I love the purr of my cat.
    2. The kitten's soft purr was a soothing sound as I drifted off to sleep, comforting in the quiet night.

  2. A low, continuous, rhythmic sound.

    1. The car's engine had a gentle purr.
    2. The sophisticated sports car's purr suggested hidden power, which was barely contained beneath its sleek hood.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "purr" in English means: To make a soft, vibrating sound like a cat when it is happy., To talk in a low, soft, and gentle voice, often to express pleasure or affection., To make a low, continuous, rhythmic sound, like an engine running smoothly..

The phonetic transcription of "purr" is /pɜː/ in British English and /pɝː/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "purr": hum, drone, murmur.

Example usage of "purr": "The cat began to purr when I stroked its back.". More examples on the page.