Screaming Meaning and Definition
Screaming
Pronunciation
/ˈskriːmɪŋ/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
Shouting or making a loud, high-pitched sound, often in a state of distress, excitement, or alarm.
Examples
- The child began screaming when she saw the clown.
- She screamed in terror as the rollercoaster started to fall.
Synonyms
- Shouting
- Yelling
- Crying
Antonyms
- Whispering
- Muttering
- Speaking softly
Etymology
Screaming is derived from the Middle English word “scryeman,” meaning “to utter a loud, piercing cry,” from the Old English words “scír” (sharp) and “cryan” (to cry).
Additional Information
Screaming can be a natural response to a frightening or overwhelming situation. It is often used as a means of expression and communication in times of stress or excitement. Screaming can also be used in a therapeutic context, such as scream therapy, to release pent-up emotions and tension.
In some cultures, screaming is considered a form of artistic expression, such as in the ritual screaming of indigenous cultures or in the practice of screaming as a form of sound healing.
Usage Notes
The word screaming is often used in conjunction with other words to convey a sense of intensity or urgency. For example, “screamingly loud” or “screaming at the top of one’s lungs.” It can also be used to describe a sound or noise that is particularly piercing or ear-piercing.
Cultural References
There are many cultural references to screaming, including horror movies where the main character screams in terror, and music genres that involve screaming, such as screamo and post-hardcore.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Screaming blue murder
About to scream
On the verge of screaming
Ready to scream
Related Words or Phrases
Shrieking, wailing, bellowing, yelling, crying
Collocations
Screaming at the top of one’s lungs / scream loudly / scream in terror
Frequency of Use
The word screaming is commonly used in everyday language, particularly in informal contexts such as social media and spoken conversation.
Common Misspellings
Screeming, screamming, screammingly, screemingly