The term CRY WEAKLY can be broken down into two crossword solutions, PULE and MEWL. PULE is a verb meaning to cry or whine in a feeble or petulant way. It is derived from the Latin word pulsare, which means to beat or strike. MEWL is also a verb meaning to cry or whimper in a feeble or plaintive way. It is derived from the Old English word mēawl, which means to mew or meow. Both words describe a type of crying that is weak and pitiful.