Growls

Growl is a low, guttural vocalization produced by many mammals, often as a warning or threat. The sound is typically deep and rasping, produced with partial closure of the vocal cords and constricted airflow. It can be loud and sustained, and is frequently accompanied by postural signals such as flattened ears, bared teeth, or a stiff stance. The growl serves to deter threats while avoiding physical contact when possible, though it may precede aggression if the threat persists.

In animal communication, growls convey negative affect and intent. They function in social hierarchy, territory defense, parental protection, and signaling fear or pain. Species differ in acoustics and context: canids such as dogs and wolves use growls to express discomfort, warning, or possessiveness; bears use growls in close-range defense; some large cats produce deep snarls or chuffs that resemble growls as part of a broader threat repertoire. Growling can occur alone or as part of a sequence with other vocalizations and facial cues.

In humans, growl refers to rough, deep vocalizations produced in anger or exertion, or to stomach and engine noises described metaphorically as growling. It appears in speech and writing as onomatopoeia to convey menace or primal intensity. The term can also function as a verb, as in “to growl.”