squeal

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squeal / skwēl/ • n. a long, high-pitched cry or noise: we heard a splash and a squeal.• v. [intr.] 1. make such a cry or noise: the girls squealed with delight. ∎  [with direct speech] say something in a high-pitched, excited tone: “Don't you dare!” she squealed. ∎  complain or protest about something: the bookies only squealed because we beat them.2. inf. inform on someone to the police or a person in authority: she feared they would victimize her for squealing on their pals.DERIVATIVES: squeal·er n. (esp. in sense 2).

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