Wail

Quick meaning: Wail is a verb meaning (intransitive) To cry out, as in sorrow or anguish.

Meaning

(intransitive) To cry out, as in sorrow or anguish.

More Meanings

1. (intransitive) To weep, lament persistently or bitterly.
2. (intransitive) To make a noise like mourning or crying.
3. (transitive) To lament; to bewail; to grieve over.
4. A prolonged cry, usually high-pitched, especially as of grief or anguish.
5. Any similar sound as of lamentation; a howl.
6. A sound made by emergency vehicle sirens, contrasted with "yelp" which is higher-pitched and faster.
7. (slang, music) To perform with great liveliness and force.

Example Sentences

to wail one's death

She let out a loud, doleful wail.

The wind wailed and the rain streamed down.

My lord, wise men ne'er sit and wail their woes

Word Forms

• wails
• wailing
• wailed

Synonyms for wail

Depending on context, synonyms include groan, moan, beweep, cry, greet, weep.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include mewl, whimper, pule, ululate, howl, roar.

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