squawk
This term evokes a jarring, abrasive sound that is intentionally discordant. When applied to animals, it describes the raw, piercing quality of a bird's call. When applied to humans, it shifts into a social critique, suggesting a complaint that is not only loud but irritating or childish in its delivery. In aviation, the term is used as a technical jargon referring to the transponder code. This specialized usage is entirely distinct from the auditory meanings and is used as both a noun for the device and a verb for the act of transmitting the code.
Meanings
To make a loud, harsh, discordant noise, typically like that of a crow or a parrot.
"The parrots began to squawk loudly as soon as the door opened."
To complain loudly and irritably about something.
"The passengers started to squawk when they discovered the flight was delayed by six hours."
To utter a loud, harsh cry or sound.
"The bird squawked a warning to the rest of the flock."