wail (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /weɪl/

Definition

To cry out loudly and with a lot of emotion, usually because of pain, grief, or fear.

Examples

• She heard the wail of a siren in the distance.

• The child wailed when he fell and scraped his knee.

• A mournful wail echoed through the empty house.

How to Use wail

wail about (prepositional phrase)

To complain loudly and persistently about something. — "He always wails about how much homework he has."

wail with (prepositional phrase)

To cry out loudly due to a specific emotion or sensation. — "The baby wailed with hunger."

Synonyms of wail

Words with a similar meaning to wail:

• cry
• sob
• howl
• lament

Antonyms of wail

Words with the opposite meaning to wail:

• chuckle
• cheer

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