Pronunciation: [blˈiːt] (IPA) 
The word "bleat" is spelled with a "ea" diphthong, which is pronounced /iː/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first consonant in the word is a voiceless bilabial plosive, denoted by /b/. The second consonant is a voiceless alveolar plosive, written as /t/. The final consonant in the word is voiceless, pronounced as a glottal stop, represented by the symbol /ʔ/. In total, "bleat" is pronounced /bliːt/ in IPA phonetics.
"Bleat" is a verb that refers to the high-pitched vocalization made by sheep and goats, typically in the form of a wavering or wavering cry. This vocalization is produced by the sounding of the vocal cords while exhaling, resulting in a distinctive and repetitive long bleating sound.
Metaphorically, the term "bleat" can also be used to describe the act of complaining or expressing dissatisfaction in a weak or feeble manner, similar to the sound made by these animals. It denotes a repetitive or incessant expression of discontentment, usually without much substance or purpose. In this sense, "bleat" is often used to describe someone who continuously whines or grumbles about trivial matters without taking any substantial action to resolve them.
Additionally, the term can be used as a noun to refer to the sound itself, describing the distinctive noise produced by sheep or goats. It can also be used figuratively to describe a weak or feeble cry or vocalization made by humans or other animals, conveying a sense of helplessness or vulnerability.
Overall, "bleat" primarily signifies the vocalization made by sheep and goats but can also describe human complain or criticism in a weak or feeble manner.
• The cry of a sheep.
• To cry as a sheep.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "bleat" comes from the Old English word "blætan", which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "blǣtaną". This Proto-Germanic term meant "to bleat" or "to make a noise". The origin of "bleat" can be traced back to the sound that sheep make, imitating the sound they produce.
