sob

Definition

To cry noisily while taking short, sharp breaths, often because you are very upset.

Usage & Nuances

'Sob' is typically used for stronger, more emotional crying than 'cry.' It's more formal than 'bawl' or 'blubber.' You can use 'sob' as a verb ('She sobbed loudly') or as a noun ('a loud sob'). Common collocations: 'sob quietly,' 'break into sobs,' 'choke back a sob.'

Example Sentences