Screechy: meaning, definitions and examples

😱
Add to dictionary

screechy

 

[ ˈskriː.tʃi ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

sound description

The term 'screechy' describes a sound that is high-pitched, harsh, and often grating to the ears. It is commonly used to characterize noises that are unpleasant, similar to a screech or scream. This adjective evokes a sense of discomfort and is often used in scenarios involving animals or loud machinery. The frequency and intensity of a screechy sound can be jarring, often prompting a desire to cover one's ears or seek quieter surroundings.

Synonyms

grating, harsh, piercing, shrill.

Examples of usage

  • The cat made a screechy sound at the passing car.
  • The brakes of the bicycle were screechy and alarming.
  • Her voice became screechy as she tried to get attention.

Translations

Translations of the word "screechy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estridente

🇮🇳 चिड़चिड़ा

🇩🇪 kreischend

🇮🇩 berteriak

🇺🇦 скрипучий

🇵🇱 piszczący

🇯🇵 キーキー

🇫🇷 strident

🇪🇸 estridente

🇹🇷 iniltili

🇰🇷 소리 지르는

🇸🇦 صرير

🇨🇿 křičící

🇸🇰 vreskľavý

🇨🇳 尖叫的

🇸🇮 škripajoč

🇮🇸 skrækljandi

🇰🇿 қырылдаған

🇬🇪 ჭყივილი

🇦🇿 qışqıran

🇲🇽 estridente

Etymology

The word 'screechy' originates from 'screech', which dates back to the late Middle English period, around the 14th century. It is believed to be rooted in the Old Norse word 'skrika', which means 'to scream' or 'to shriek'. Over time, 'screech' evolved to describe certain high-pitched and piercing sounds, particularly those associated with animals or distress. The suffix '-y' is often added in English to create adjectives that describe a characteristic of the noun, hence 'screechy' refers to the quality of producing a screeching sound. The usage of 'screech' and its derivatives has continued to evolve within the English language, often reflecting the emotional response evoked by harsh sounds.