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Screaming: meaning, definitions and examples

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screaming

 

[ ˈskriːmɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

audible expression

Screaming is a loud vocalization that typically expresses strong emotions such as fear, excitement, anger, or pain. It can serve as a form of communication or a reaction to a sudden stimulus. People often scream in social situations to draw attention or provoke a response. In certain contexts, screaming can also convey joy or celebration. The sound is usually characterized by high pitch and intensity.

Synonyms

crying, howling, shouting, yelling

Examples of usage

  • She was screaming with joy after winning the prize.
  • The children were screaming in fright during the horror movie.
  • He couldn't help but scream when he saw the spider.
  • They were screaming at the concert, enjoying the live music.

Etymology

The word 'scream' originated from the Old English 'screman', which meant 'to cry out, to shout'. This term can be traced back to the Proto-West Germanic 'skramōną', which also referred to loud vocalizations. The term has evolved in usage over the centuries, initially denoting a range of vocal sounds but increasingly coming to imply intense emotion or alarm. In various cultures around the world, the act of screaming has been a significant part of human expression, often linked to social interactions, storytelling, and cultural rituals. The modern use of 'scream' encompasses both emotional expressions and the physical act of producing loud sounds, demonstrating how language adapts to convey feelings effectively.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,887 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.