Definitions

1. noun

a loud, mournful cry, especially of an animal, especially a cat.

“The abandoned cat let out a pitiful yowl in the dead of night.”

2. verb

to cry or howl loudly, especially in a mournful or pitiful manner.

“The injured dog yowled in pain as it struggled to get up.”

3. verb

to make a loud, mournful cry, typically of an animal.

“The cat yowled loudly as it sensed the presence of food.”