Scream: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'scream' when someone is expressing extreme fear, terror, or pain in a loud, high-pitched voice. It can also denote an intense expression of strong emotions.

• She let out a scream when she saw the spider.
• He screamed in pain after he twisted his ankle.

Use 'shout' when someone is raising their voice to be heard, often in situations of anger, excitement, or to communicate across a distance.

• He had to shout to be heard over the noise of the crowd.
• She shouted at her brother for breaking her favorite toy.

Use 'yell' for loud, forceful cries, typically in situations of frustration, anger, or urgency. It implies a need to grab attention quickly.

• He had to yell to get the players' attention on the field.
• She yelled at her kids to hurry up and get ready.

Use 'shriek' for high-pitched, loud sounds, often expressing sudden shock, fright, or excitement. Generally, it conveys a very sharp or piercing sound.

• She shrieked when the surprise party lights turned on.
• The horror movie made him shriek with fear.

Used when someone is scared, in pain, or extremely excited. It's a loud, high-pitched cry.

• She let out a scream when she saw the spider.
• The kids screamed with joy at the amusement park.

Used for a sharp, high-pitched cry or sound, usually expressing fright, excitement, or surprise.

• The children shrieked with delight when they saw the presents.
• He let out a shriek when the cold water hit him.
• She shrieked when she saw the ghost.

Describes a very high-pitched, unpleasant sound. Often associated with brakes, birds, or a loud cry of fear or surprise.

• The car brakes screeched as it came to a sudden stop.
• The parrot screeched loudly when it was startled.
• She screeched in surprise when the thunderstorm started.

Often used to describe the noise made by animals, especially wolves. Can also describe a loud, prolonged cry of pain or laughter.

• The wolves howled at the moon.
• He howled in pain when he hurt his leg.
• The audience howled with laughter at the comedian's jokes.