shrieks; shrieked; shrieking
1
: to make a loud, high-pitched cry
The birds were shrieking in the trees.
The baby shrieked [=screamed] with delight.
She shrieked when she saw a mouse.
2
: to say (something) in a loud, high-pitched voice
"Mommy!" she shrieked.
plural shrieks
: a loud, high-pitched cry or sound
The baby gave a shriek [=scream] of delight.
the shriek of the train's brakes
Cite this Entry
“Shriek.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/shriek. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.
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