Creaky describes something that makes a high-pitched squeaking or groaning sound, usually because it's old, worn, or needs oil. An old wooden staircase might be creaky, making noise with every step you take. A rusty gate is creaky when you swing it open. Even an old chair can be creaky, protesting with squeaks and groans whenever someone sits down or shifts their weight.

The sound itself tells you something: whatever is creaking has parts rubbing together that should move smoothly. Think of how a brand-new bicycle is silent, but after years of use without maintenance, the pedals and chain might become creaky. That's why people say something “creaks with age.”

The word also describes voices that sound strained or scratchy, like when you first wake up with a creaky voice, or when someone very elderly speaks with a thin, wavering tone. You might also hear people describe old systems or organizations as creaky when they're outdated and struggling to function, like a creaky computer system at school that takes forever to load. The word always suggests something worn down by time, barely managing to do its job.