Basic Details
Word: Shrill
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: A very high-pitched and loud sound, often unpleasant to hear.
Synonyms: Piercing, shrieking, high-pitched
Antonyms: Soft, muffled, low
Idioms and Phrases
- Scream like a banshee: To make an extremely loud and high-pitched noise, often in fright or excitement. Example: "When the rollercoaster reached the top, she screamed like a banshee."
- Cut through the noise: To make a sound that is so loud and clear that it stands out from everything else. Example: "Her shrill voice cut through the noise of the party, making everyone turn to listen."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The teacher's shrill whistle called the students to attention.
Example 2: As the fire alarm went off, a shrill sound echoed through the hallways.
Example 3: The shrill laughter of the children filled the playground as they played their games.
Fun Fact
The word "shrill" comes from the Old English word "shrlan," which means to cry out or shout. It has been used for over a thousand years to describe high-pitched sounds.
Famous Quote
"The shrill sound of the sirens filled the air, reminding us that safety always comes first." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "shrill" mean?
a) A soft sound
b) A very high-pitched and loud sound
c) A musical note
d) A low rumble
Answer: b) A very high-pitched and loud sound
2. Which of these is a synonym of "shrill"?
a) Soft
b) Piercing
c) Gentle
d) Muffled
Answer: b) Piercing
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "shrill"?
a) Loud
b) High-pitched
c) Soft
d) Shrieking
Answer: c) Soft
4. Which sentence uses "shrill" correctly?
a) The wind whispered a shrill tune.
b) The dog barked in a shrill voice that made everyone cover their ears.
c) She found a shrill book on the shelf.
d) The cat purred with a shrill sound.
Answer: b) The dog barked in a shrill voice that made everyone cover their ears.
5. Which idiom means to make a very loud and high-pitched noise?
a) Moonlight serenade
b) Scream like a banshee
c) A penny for your thoughts
d) A stitch in time saves nine
Answer: b) Scream like a banshee
