Shrill

Adjective

Definition: High-pitched and piercing in sound.

Synonyms: Piercing, High-pitched, Screeching

Antonyms: Soothing, Low-pitched, Mellow

Examples:

The shrill sound of the fire alarm woke everyone up.
Her shrill voice could be heard from miles away.

Mnemonics:

"Shrill" sounds similar to "drill," and both words share the quality of being sharp and piercing.

Etymology:

Origin:

Old English 'scrallettan,' which meant "to sound loudly," derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'skrælaz,' meaning "to cry out." Later, it transformed into 'shrill.'

Historical Usage:

The word 'shrill' has been used since the 14th century and has retained its primary meaning of a piercing sound throughout history.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Shrill as a whistle"

Explanation:

Describing a very high-pitched and piercing sound, similar to the sound of a whistle.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Shrill is only associated with negative sounds or voices.

Explanation:

While 'shrill' is often used to describe unpleasant or sharp sounds, it can also be used to signify a high-pitched sound that may not necessarily be negative in nature.