Definition

Having a loud, harsh, or grating sound that is often unpleasant to hear.

Example

The strident sound of the alarm woke everyone in the building.

Conversation

Did you hear that strident noise coming from the street?

Yeah, it was so loud it almost hurt my ears!

I wonder what was making such a strident sound.

I think it was some construction work nearby.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Strident → It is formed from 'stridere' (Latin, meaning to creak or screech) and the suffix '-ent' (indicating an adjective). The word 'strident' describes a harsh or grating sound, akin to something that creaks or screeches.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word 'stridere' which means to creak or screech, helping you remember that 'strident' refers to a harsh or grating sound.

Visually Confused Words