Definition

The quality of being loud, harsh, or grating in sound.

Example

The stridence of her voice made it hard to concentrate on the lecture.

Conversation

Did you notice the stridence in her voice during the meeting?

Yeah, it really stood out and caught everyone’s attention.

I wonder if she realizes how much stridence can affect her message.

It can be powerful, but too much might turn people off.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stridence → It is derived from the Latin root 'stridens' (meaning shrill or screeching), which comes from 'stridere' (meaning to creak or screech). The word 'stridence' refers to a quality of being shrill or having a high-pitched sound.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word 'stridere' which means to screech — this helps you remember that 'stridence' describes a shrill or high-pitched sound.

Visually Confused Words