scream
scream definition
scream (skrēm)
intransitive verb
- to utter a shrill, loud, piercing cry in fright, pain, etc.
- to make or move with a shrill, piercing sound
- to laugh loudly or hysterically
- to have a startling effect; leave a vivid impression
- to shout or yell in anger, hysteria, etc.
Etymology: ME screamen, akin to Fl schreemen, to scream, Ger schrei, a cry < IE *skerei- < echoic base *(s)ker- > shriek, raven, ring
transitive verb
- to utter with or as with a scream or screams
- to bring into a specified state by screaming to scream oneself hoarse
noun
- a sharp, piercing cry; shriek
- any shrill, piercing sound
- Informal a person or thing considered hilariously funny
Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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