yells; yelled; yelling
1
: to say (something) very loudly especially because you are angry, surprised, or are trying to get someone's attention
We saw people yelling for help.
She yelled [=shouted] to her friend across the park.
—often + atStop yelling at me!
I heard someone yelling my name.
kids yelling [=shouting] insults at each other
"Look out!" she yelled.
—often + outHe yelled out my name when he saw me.
2
: to make a sudden, loud cry
The crowd was yelling wildly.
—often + outShe yelled out [=cried out] in pain.
plural yells
1
: a sudden, loud cry
—often + of
We heard the yells [=shouts] of children coming from the park.
a yell of joy/triumph
She let out a yell.
(informal) Give me a yell if you need anything. [=call me if you need anything; let me know if you need anything]
2
US
: a usually rhythmic shout or cheer used especially in schools or colleges to show support for sports teams
the old school yell
Cite this Entry
“Yell.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/yell. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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