B1adjective 10K+

Shrill

UK //ʃrɪl// US //ʃrɪl// Pronunciation

Definition

A high-pitched, piercing sound that is often unpleasant.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A loud and high-pitched sound that is often unpleasant.

Examples

• The shrill whistle of the train startled everyone on the platform.
• She let out a shrill scream when she saw the spider.
• The dog has a shrill bark that can be heard from blocks away.
• During the concert, the singer's voice became unexpectedly shrill.
• The shrill sound of the alarm clock woke me up suddenly.

Usage notes

Use 'shrill' when describing sounds, especially in contexts where they are annoying or harsh. It can be informal or formal.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'shrill' like 'shrieking' - both describe loud, piercing sounds.

Collocations

• shrill voice
• shrill laughter
• shrill sound

Synonyms

• piercing
• stentorian
• sharp
• screeching
• cacophonous

Antonyms

• deep
• soft
• mellow

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'shrill' with 'sharp' - 'shrill' specifically refers to sound.
• Using 'shrill' for quiet or soft sounds.
• Not using 'shrill' for voice tones where it's appropriate.