Shrill

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ʃɹɪl/
• Rhymes: -ɪl

Origin

Middle English shrille.

Full definition of shrill

Adjective

1. High-pitched and piercing.She spoke in a shrill voice.
• ShakespeareHear the shrill whistle which doth order give
  To sounds confused.
• ByronLet winds be shrill, let waves roll high.
2. Sharp or keen to the senses.

Verb

1. To make a shrill noise.
• SpenserBreak we our pipes, that shrill'd loud as lark.
• GoldsmithNo sounds were heard but of the shrilling cock.
• L. WallaceHis voice shrilled with passion.

Noun

1. A shrill sound.