wail

wail · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To cry out or grieve with a prolonged high-pitched sound.

  2. 2.

    To make a long, high, mournful sound.

  3. 3.

    A long, high-pitched cry of grief or distress.

  4. 4.

    A prolonged high-pitched sound.

Related words

Antonyms: laugh, rejoice
See also: cry, howl, lament, moan
Synonyms: cry, howl, lament, moan

Etymology

From Old Norse væla meaning "to lament," related to vā meaning "woe." Cognate with Old English wā and Latin vae.