tsk-tsks
Sounds of reproach
Tsk-tsks is the verb form of tsk-tsk, meaning to express disapproval or reproach through the clicking sound made by pressing the tongue against the teeth: She tsk-tsked at the mess in the kitchen.
The word captures mild, often slightly smug censure—the sound your grandmother makes when she finds out you skipped church.
Harsh verbal criticism
- admonishmentExpression of disapproval or warning
- reproofExpression of blame
- chidingVoicing mild disapproval
- reproachExpression of disappointment
reprimand · correction · lecture · telling-off · censure · upbraiding · criticism · nagging
Hen's vocal noise
- frowningFacial expression of displeasure
- eye-rollingExpressive gesture of annoyance
- sighingAudible breath of emotion
- scoffingMocking with contempt
disdain · judgment · scorn · contempt · derision · displeasure · disfavor · sniffing
Hen's throaty call
Breathy, near-silent speech
- murmuringSpeaking softly, indistinctly
- gossipingTalking about absent people
- judgingForming an opinion
- busybodiesThose who interfere uninvited
tattling · scandalized · pearl-clutching · nosy · meddling · neighborhood watch · rumormongering
scolding
Harsh verbal criticism
- admonishmentExpression of disapproval or warning
- reproofExpression of blame
- chidingVoicing mild disapproval
reproach · reprimand · correction · lecture · telling-off · censure · upbraiding · criticism · nagging · faultfinding
clucking
Hen's vocal noise
- frowningFacial expression of displeasure
- eye-rollingExpressive gesture of annoyance
- sighingAudible breath of emotion
scoffing · disdain · judgment · scorn · contempt · derision · displeasure · disfavor · sniffing · grimacing
cluck
Hen's throaty call
whispering
Breathy, near-silent speech
busybodies · tattling · scandalized · pearl-clutching · nosy · meddling · neighborhood watch · rumormongering