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Shrill - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Shrill describes a high-pitched, sharp, or piercing sound, often unpleasant to hear. It can also refer to a voice or tone that is loud and harsh in quality.

shrill

/ʃrɪl/ /ʃrɪl/

Definition:

High-pitched and piercing in sound or tone, often unpleasant to hear.

Synonyms:

piercing, screeching, strident, sharp

Part of Speech:

adjective, verb

Antonyms:

soft, mellow

Common Collocations:

shrill voice, shrill sound, shrill cry, shrill whistle

Derivatives:

shrillness, shrilly

Usage Tips:

Use "shrill" to describe sounds that are uncomfortably high and loud, like alarms or screams.

Common Phrases:

shrill as a whistle, shrill with excitement, a shrill protest

Etymology:

Originates from Old English "scrallettan," meaning to sound loudly or harshly.

Examples:

  • 1. The alarm emitted a shrill noise that startled everyone.
  • 2. Her shrill laughter echoed through the quiet room.
  • 3. The bird's call was unusually shrill at dawn.
  • 4. He spoke in a shrill tone when he was angry.

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