Definition

To make a loud, high-pitched sound, often in a way that is unpleasant or alarming.

Example

The tires screeched as the car came to a sudden stop.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that screech coming from the park earlier?

Yeah, it sounded like a bird or something really upset.

I wonder if it was a cat chasing it, they always screech when they're angry.

That makes sense! Nature can be pretty noisy sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A loud, high-pitched sound that is often sharp and unpleasant, usually made by a person or animal in distress or by certain objects like brakes.

Example

The owl let out a screech that echoed through the night.

Conversation

Did you hear that screech from the train earlier?

Yeah, it was really loud and surprising!

I always find those sounds a bit unsettling.

Definition

To make a loud, high-pitched sound, often in a way that is unpleasant or alarming.

Example

The cat began to screech when it saw the dog approaching.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that cat screech last night?

Yeah, it sounded really eerie, didn’t it?

I wonder what made it screech like that.

Root Explanation

Screech → The word 'screech' originates from Middle English 'screchen', which is derived from Old English 'screcan', meaning to cry out or scream. It describes a loud, high-pitched sound, often associated with distress or alarm.

Memory Tip

Imagine a loud, high-pitched cry that makes you think of someone 'screaming' — that's what 'screech' means.

Visually Confused Words