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Definition of shrillness

shrillness

/ˈʃrɪl.nəs/
shrill · ness
Adverb:shrilly
•
Adjective:shrill
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shrillness Lexical Profile

shrillness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of having a high-pitched, piercing, and unpleasant sound.

Example

"The sudden shrillness of the referee's whistle echoed across the quiet stadium."

2

An overly strident, insistent, or aggressive quality in speech, writing, or public debate.

Example

"Critics noted that the shrillness of the campaign rhetoric alienated many moderate voters."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for shrillness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for shrillness

Word Nuance & Usage

When applied to a person's voice or manner of speaking, 'shrillness' carries a negative connotation and has historically been used as a gendered critique to dismiss outspoken women.

• Rhymes for shrillness

• Nearby Words

shrieky
shrike
shrill
shrillness
shrilly
shrimp
shrimper

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Shrillness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/shrillness
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