What do you call a word when it sounds like its meaning?

There isn't a single, widely accepted term for a word that sounds like its meaning. However, depending on the specific type of sound-meaning connection, you could use one of the following:

* Onomatopoeia: This is the most common and straightforward term, describing words that imitate the sounds they represent. Examples include "buzz," "crash," and "meow."

* Ideophone: This term, often used in linguistics, refers to words that express a sound, a gesture, or a sensory experience. Examples include "whoosh" (sound of wind), "thump" (sound of a fall), and "bang" (sound of an explosion).

* Sound symbolism: This is a broader term that encompasses any connection between the sound of a word and its meaning, including onomatopoeia and ideophones. It also includes words where the sound evokes a specific feeling or image, such as "rough" sounding harsh and "smooth" sounding gentle.

Ultimately, the best term to use depends on the specific relationship between the sound and meaning of the word you are describing.