Shrillest: meaning, definitions and examples
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shrillest
[ˈʃrɪlɪst ]
Definition
sound quality
The term 'shrillest' refers to a high-pitched and piercing sound that is often unpleasant or grating to hear. It describes vocal tones or instruments that emit a loud, sharp noise that can be off-putting. This adjective is derived from the word 'shrill,' denoting an extreme degree of sharpness in sound. People might use it to describe the sound of a whistle, a scream, or certain types of music that feature high frequencies. 'Shrillest' can also convey a sense of urgency or distress in some contexts.
Synonyms
high-pitched, piercing, screeching, sharp, wailing.
Examples of usage
- The shrillest cry echoed in the dark.
- She let out the shrillest laughter that filled the room.
- The dog produced its shrillest bark when startled.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'shrill' comes from the Old English word 'scryllan', which means to cry out or shout.
- It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word 'skrilwō', meaning to scream or shriek.
- The suffix '-est' is added to indicate the extreme degree, making 'shrill' into 'shrillest'.
Psychology
- High-pitched sounds can trigger stronger emotional responses, often leading to feelings of discomfort or anxiety.
- Research shows that people are more likely to remember sounds that are shrill or unusual compared to more muted noises.
- In animal communication, shrill sounds can convey distress or alert others to danger.
Music
- In music, shrill notes are often produced by instruments like the flute or piccolo, creating bright and piercing melodies.
- Certain styles of music, like punk rock, intentionally use shrill sounds to convey energy and rebellion.
- Vocalists may produce shrill notes to demonstrate vocal skill, especially in genres like opera.
Nature
- Birds like the mockingbird and certain species of frogs use shrill calls to attract mates or establish territory.
- Environmental changes can affect the frequency and volume of animal calls, leading to a rise in shrill sounds in polluted areas.
- Insects, like cicadas, make shrill sounds during mating seasons, which serve to draw attention from potential partners.
Media
- The sound of a shrill voice is often used in cartoons to depict a nagging character, influencing how audiences perceive them.
- In films, a sudden shrill noise can serve as an effective jump scare, heightening the tension of a scene.
- Popular songs sometimes use shrill notes in choruses to create a catchy and memorable hook.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,928, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.