Definition of creaky

The word "creaky" has its origins in the mid-17th century from the Old English words "crecean" and "craec". These words signified the sound of a human voice, specifically a grating, screeching, or creaking noise. Initially, "creaky" described the sound of a person speaking with a harsh or strained tone. Over time, the term expanded to include other sounds, such as the creaking of wooden objects (like doors, floorboards, or joints) or the sound of moving machinery. In the late 18th century, "creaky" began to take on a more figurative meaning, implying something that was worn out, old, or tired. For instance, a "creaky voice" might refer to someone's voice after years of smoking or aging, and a "creaky door" might indicate that it needed oiling or replacement. Today, "creaky" is used to describe a range of sounds, from the gruff tone of an elderly person to the squeaky hinge of an old door.