Wail – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Wail (adjective)

Wail is an adjective that describes something that produces or resembles a loud, mournful, or high-pitched sound. It is often associated with grief, pain, or intense emotion. It conveys a sense of sorrow, distress, or haunting resonance.

Examples

• The wailing wind echoed through the abandoned valley.
• Her wailing cries could be heard down the street.
• The wailing music evoked deep feelings of sorrow.
• A wailing siren pierced the stillness of the night.
• The wailing tone of his voice saddened everyone.
• The wail and howl of the wolf echoed hauntingly.
• The wailing lament of the crowd was heart-wrenching.
• A wail call from the ocean filled the air.

Meaning

• Mournful
• Haunting
• High-pitched

Pronunciation

• UK: /weɪl/ (WAYL)
• US: /weɪl/ (WAYL)

Synonyms

• Mournful
• Haunting
• Piercing
• Lamenting
• Distressed
• Shrill
• Pleading
• Heartbreaking
• Echoing
• Sad
• Sorrowful
• Grieving
• Poignant
• Plangent

Usage Tips for Wail

• Use to describe sounds that evoke grief or sorrow.
• Often used for emotional, haunting, or mournful tones.
• Avoid using it for happy or cheerful contexts.
• It can describe both human and non-human sounds.
• Ideal for emphasizing emotional intensity.

Origin

Wail (1200-1300):

It is derived from the Old Norse væla, meaning to cry or wail. It is related to the Middle English waylen.

Similar Words to Wail

• Mournful
• Haunting
• Shrill
• Piercing
• Poignant
• Sorrowful
• Heartbreaking
• Distressed
• Plangent

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of wail in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, wail means نوحہ یا چیخ و پکار.

Q: How do we use wail in a sentence?

Ans: The wailing sound of the siren warned people of the approaching danger.

Q: What’s the difference between wail and mournful?

Ans: Wail specifically refers to a sound, while mournful describes a broader emotional state or appearance.