scream definition - Dictionary

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scream

scream [ skreem ]

noun (plural screams)

Definition:

1. piercing cry: a loud, piercing, high-pitched cry, uttered in fear, pain, excitement, or amusement

2. high-pitched noise: a very loud, high-pitched sound, e.g. that of a siren or jet engine

3. somebody or something highly amusing: an extremely funny or entertaining person, event, or activity ( informal )

verb (past and past participle screamed, present participle scream·ing, 3rd person present singular screams)

Definition:

1. intransitive verb cry: to utter a loud, piercing, high-pitched cry, especially in fear, pain, or excitement

He screamed for help.

2. transitive verb shout something in piercing voice: to utter something in a loud, piercing, high-pitched voice, especially in fear, panic, desperation, or excitement

"Get out!" he screamed.

3. intransitive verb laugh loudly: to laugh shrilly and loudly

4. intransitive verb make high-pitched sound: to make a loud high-pitched sound

The ambulance went by, sirens screaming.

5. intransitive verb move at speed: to move extremely quickly while producing a loud high-pitched sound

The police car screamed by.

6. intransitive verb be obvious: to be extremely obvious or noticeable

The mistakes just scream out at you.

[13th century. Origin ?]

scream·ing·ly adverb

Cultural Note


	The Scream, a painting (1893) by the Norwegian painter Edvard Munch. Painted in a bold, expressionist style, it depicts a panic-stricken human figure standing on a bridge or pier. The skull-like face appears to emit a cry that reverberates through the surrounding landscape. A powerful symbol of despair, it is one of the best-known icons of modern art.