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Scream Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scream

[skriหm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

loud sound

To utter a loud, sharp, piercing cry.

Synonyms

shout, shriek, yell.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scream

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.
shout

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.
yell

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.
shriek

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.

Examples of usage

  • He screamed in terror.
  • The child screamed with excitement.
  • The woman screamed for help.
Context #2 | Noun

fear or excitement

A loud, sharp, piercing cry.

Synonyms

howl, screech, shriek.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scream

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.
shriek

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.
screech

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.
howl

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.

Examples of usage

  • The scream of the crowd filled the stadium.
  • She let out a blood-curdling scream.
  • A scream of joy escaped her lips.

Translations

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

Origin of 'scream'

The word 'scream' originated from the Middle English word 'skremen', which is of Germanic origin. The verb 'scream' has been used in the English language since the 12th century, while the noun form dates back to the 14th century. The word has evolved over time to represent a loud, sharp cry expressing fear, excitement, or other intense emotions.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,263 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.