WordLens

shrill

1 of 3adjective
/ʃrɪl/
Forms:shriller,shrillest
1

having a sharply high-pitched, harsh sound

C2
  • The shrill sound of the alarm clock jolted her awake.
  • The whistle emitted a shrill noise, signaling the start of the game.
  • The teapot whistled with a shrill tone when the water reached boiling point.
  • The toddler let out a shrill scream in the supermarket, catching everyone's attention.
  • The emergency siren wailed with a shrill pitch, alerting residents to take cover.
2

insistent and sharp in demand or complaint

  • His shrill criticisms of the plan were hard to ignore.
  • Her shrill demand for a refund echoed through the store.
  • His shrill complaints about the food became unbearable.
  • The shrill request for attention cut through the noise of the crowd.
Synonyms:
3

having a sharp, piercing quality that is intense and noticeable

  • The shrill light of the streetlamp was blinding at night.
  • The shrill flavor of the vinegar overwhelmed the dish.
  • The shrill light of the flashlight pierced through the darkness.
  • She was blinded by the shrill light coming from the flash.