Pronunciation: [mˈa͡ɪəɹˌʌl] (IPA) 
The word "miaul" is spelled phonetically as /miːaʊl/. The first syllable is pronounced as "mee" with a long e sound, while the second syllable is pronounced as "owl" with a diphthong of a long o and a w sound. The word is also spelled as "meow" and is a sound that cats make. The most common spelling for this sound is "meow" which is used in dictionaries, but "miaul" is a more phonetic spelling that follows closely the sound cats make.
Miaul is a verb that refers to the act of making a high-pitched sound typically produced by a cat. It specifically describes the vocalization made by a cat when it wants to grab attention, express hunger, or seek companionship. The term "miaul" closely parallel's the onomatopoeic sound that a cat emits, resembling a drawn-out "meow" or "mew."
When a cat miauls, it usually opens its mouth, projecting the sound through its vocal cords, resulting in a characteristic vocalization. Typically, this vocalization is used as a form of communication between cats and their human owners. For example, during feeding times, a cat might miaul to indicate its hunger or request food. Similarly, if a cat wants to go outside or desires attention, it might use this vocalization to express its desire.
The sound produced by a miaul can vary in intensity and pitch, depending on the particular cat and its mood or purpose. While some cats may miaul loudly and persistently, others may produce softer, more gentle sounds. Additionally, the cadence and duration of the miaul can vary, allowing for a range of emotional expressions from the feline.
Overall, miaul is an accurate verb that describes the distinct sound made by a cat, most commonly used for communication with humans or other cats.
The word miaul is derived from the French word miauler, which means to meow or to cry like a cat. The etymology of miauler can be traced back to the Vulgar Latin term miagulare, which also means to meow. This, in turn, comes from the Latin term miare, meaning to make a sound.
