Keening Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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keening

[ˈkiːnɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

funeral

Keening is a traditional form of vocal lament for the dead, often practiced in Ireland and Scotland. It involves a high-pitched wailing or crying, expressing intense grief and sorrow.

Synonyms

lament, mourn, wail.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
keening	Typically used to describe a high-pitched, prolonged sound of grief or pain, especially in a traditional or cultural context, such as Irish or Scottish mourning practices. The widow's keening echoed through the valley. The keening of the mourners was heart-wrenching.
lament	Used when expressing profound sadness or regret verbally or through a more formal expression like poetry or song. It can address both personal loss and broader social sorrow. He wrote a beautiful poem to lament his lost youth. The community gathered to lament the closing of the local school.
wail	Describes a loud, often high-pitched cry of grief, pain, or despair. It is typically more intense and emotional than 'keening,' and used in moments of acute emotional agony. The mother's wail could be heard for miles after she received the tragic news. The wounded soldier let out a wail of agony.
mourn	Refers to the act of grieving and showing respect for someone who has passed away. It is a broader term that can be used in most situations involving the death or loss of someone or something significant. She took time off work to mourn her grandmother's death. They mourn the loss of their beloved pet.

Examples of usage

The mourners could be heard keening at the funeral procession.
She began keening uncontrollably when she heard the news of her brother's passing.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

expression of grief

To keen means to wail or lament loudly and emotionally, especially in mourning for the dead.

Synonyms

lament, mourn, wail.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
keening	Use this word when describing the loud and wailing cries, often in a ceremonial or intensely emotional situation, especially related to mourning the dead. The keening of the mourners could be heard throughout the village as they grieved for their lost ones
wail	This word refers to a prolonged high-pitched cry of pain, grief, or anger. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts to highlight the intensity of the sound. The child's loud wail filled the room as she realized her pet was gone
lament	This word is suitable for expressing profound sorrow or grief, often in a poetic or formal manner. It can be used both in the context of mourning someone's death or expressing regret over a misfortune. He wrote a heartfelt lament for his lost love, pouring all his emotions into the verses
mourn	Use this word in situations where someone is feeling or showing deep sorrow, typically due to someone's death. It is a formal and general term for the process and expression of grief. The whole community came together to mourn the loss of their beloved leader

Examples of usage

She keened for hours after the tragic accident.
The women in the village would often gather to keen together during times of loss.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

In Irish funerals, women often performed keening, which involved lamenting loudly to express grief.
Scots Gaelic tradition also includes a form of keening, called 'caoineadh,' which is a ceremonial crying to honor the dead.
Keening can also be found in various cultures around the world, showcasing a universal expression of deep sorrow.

Literature and Arts

Keening has been featured in poetry and songs, often associated with themes of loss and deep emotion.
Several notable literary works explore keening, reflecting its impact on the grieving process in human lives.
It has also influenced modern music, where artists use similar vocal techniques to convey feelings of longing or sorrow.

Psychology

The act of keening can be seen as a form of catharsis, allowing individuals to express pent-up emotions during moments of loss.
Research suggests that vocal expressions of grief can help individuals process their feelings and cope with loss.
People performing keening may experience a sense of community and shared mourning, which can be healing.

Folklore

In some Celtic folklore, it was believed that hearing a keening woman signified an imminent death.
Legends often depict keeners as supernatural figures who aid in guiding souls to the afterlife.
The imagery associated with keening in folklore often ties it to the themes of fate and destiny, linking the living with the spiritual world.

Origin of 'keening'

Main points about word origin

The word 'keening' comes from the Old Irish 'caoinim,' which means 'to weep or cry.'
In Middle English, it was related to 'kene,' meaning sharp or fierce, reflecting the intensity of the sound.
The term has been used in various cultures, particularly in Ireland and Scotland, as a traditional form of mourning.

The term 'keening' has its origins in Irish and Scottish Gaelic traditions, where professional keeners would be hired to lament at funerals and express the grief of the community. The practice dates back centuries and was an important part of the mourning process in these cultures. Keening has been used as a way to honor the deceased and provide catharsis for those left behind.

See also: keen, keeness, keenly, keenness.