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Skirl - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Skirl is the shrill, piercing sound made by bagpipes. It can also describe any similar high-pitched, wailing noise, often evoking a sense of traditional or rustic music.

skirl

/skɝl/ /skɜːl/

Definition:

A shrill sound, especially that of bagpipes.

Synonyms:

screech, shriek, wail

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

silence, hush

Common Collocations:

bagpipes skirl, skirl of pipes, skirl loudly

Derivatives:

skirling, skirled

Usage Tips:

Use "skirl" to describe high-pitched sounds, often from musical instruments like bagpipes.

Common Phrases:

the skirl of the pipes, a skirling tune

Etymology:

Originates from Middle English "skrillen," meaning to shriek or scream shrilly.

Examples:

  • 1. The bagpipes began to skirl across the valley.
  • 2. We heard the skirl of distant pipes at the festival.
  • 3. The wind made the wires skirl like ghosts.
  • 4. Her laughter rose to a joyful skirl in the crowd.

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