wolf-whistles

Crude attention sounds

Wolf-whistles are shrill, two-note whistles directed at someone—almost always a woman—to signal sexual appreciation of her appearance.

The whistle slides from low to high, mimicking a cartoon reaction to attractiveness.

Once considered flattering by some, wolf-whistling is now widely regarded as street harassment: She quickened her pace past the construction site to avoid the wolf-whistles.

harassment

catcalling

Harassing strangers verbally

inappropriate · sexism · misogyny · intimidation · disrespect · creepy · predatory · street harassment · derogatory · vulgar

signal

attention

Focused mental awareness

two-tone · loud · catcall · construction site · passerby · audible · blast · sharp · unmistakable

Opposites
reception/respect

wolf-whistlesaverted gaze

Deliberately not looking

social behavior

wolf-whistlesgentlemanly behavior

Courteous, honorable conduct

restraint · decorum · propriety · chivalry · gallantry

respect vs. objectification

wolf-whistlesgentlemanly conduct

Honorable, courteous behavior

deference · chivalry

Family

wolf, whistle, wolves, wolfish, wolflike, whistles, whistled, whistling, whistler

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG