yelp

/jɛlp/
noun
  1. A short, sharp, high-pitched cry, especially one made by a dog or other animal.
    • We heard a yelp from the backyard and ran to see what happened.
    • A yelp of pain escaped the cat when it was startled.
    • The fox let out a sudden yelp before disappearing into the woods.
  2. A short, sharp cry of pain, surprise, or excitement made by a person.
    • She gave a little yelp when she stubbed her toe on the chair.
    • His yelp of joy echoed through the stadium after the winning goal.
    • I let out a yelp as the roller coaster plunged downward.
Synonyms
verb
  1. To make a short, sharp, high-pitched cry, typically of pain, surprise, or excitement.
    • She yelped in surprise as the cold water hit her skin.
    • The puppy yelped when I accidentally stepped on its tail.
    • The dog yelped happily when its owner came home.
  2. To cry out or complain in a shrill or whining manner.
    • The toddler yelped for more candy when his mother said no.
    • Some customers yelped about the long wait at the restaurant.
    • He yelped about the unfairness of the referee's call.