shrill

/ʃrɪl/

Definitions

1. adjective

high-pitched and loud; harsh and unpleasant to listen to

“The shrill sound of the siren pierced through the night air.”

2. noun

a high-pitched, sharp sound

“The bird’s shrill cry echoed through the forest.”

3. verb

to make a high-pitched, sharp sound

“The whistle shrilled loudly in her hands.”

Synonyms

  • harsh
  • high-pitched
  • shrieky

Antonyms

  • mellow
  • soft