Definition of Roar
A roar /rɔːr/ is a type of animal vocalization that is loud, deep and resonating. Many mammals have evolved to produce roars and other roar-like vocals for purposes such as long-distance communication and intimidation. These include various species of big cats, bears, pinnipeds, deer, bovids, elephants, and simians.
The anatomical basis for the ability to roar often involves modifications to the larynx and hyoid bone and enlarged internal air spaces for low-frequency vocal resonation. While roaring, animals may stretch out their necks and elevate their heads to increase the space for resonance.
Related terms
Bellow (sound)
A bellow (/ˈbel.oʊ/ is a type of animal vocalization common amongst bulls and other…
Whale vocalization
Whales use a variety of sounds for communication and sensation. The mechanisms used to…
Growling
Growling is a low, guttural vocalization produced by animals as an aggressive warning…
Contact call
Contact calls are short, seemingly haphazard vocalizations made by many social animals…
Meow
A meow or miaow is a cat vocalization. Meows may have a large range of sounds. Adult…
Pant-hoot
The pant-hoot is a loud, structurally complex vocalization of chimpanzees. The call is…
Resonating device
A resonating device is a structure used by an animal that improves the quality of its…
Gecker
A gecker is a vocalization most often associated with infant primates. It is defined as…
Bark (sound)
A bark is a sound most often produced by dogs. Other animals that make this noise…
Questions people ask
Real questions from the Stack Exchange community – follow a link to read the discussion.
- How to make a sound of dragon roar? · Sound Design SE
- Jurassic Park - Classic Roar · Sound Design SE
Frequently asked questions
What is Roar?
A roar /rɔːr/ is a type of animal vocalization that is loud, deep and resonating. Many mammals have evolved to produce roars and other roar-like vocals for purposes such as long-distance communication and intimidation.