screech

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a sharp, high-pitched cry made by a person or animal.

n. a harsh, shrill vocalisation, often associated with acute pain, terror, or animalistic distress.

“An owl let out a piercing screech in the middle of the night.”

“The silence of the woods was shattered by the screech of a hawk circling high above the valley.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to make a very high, loud, and unpleasant sound.

v. to emit a high-pitched, piercing sound, whether vocally or through mechanical friction.

“The parrots in the pet shop started to screech as soon as we walked in.”

“The subway train screeched to a halt at the platform, forcing the waiting passengers to cover their ears.”

C1 · Advanced Informal

v. to move very quickly, especially in a car, making a lot of noise.

v. to travel at high speed, typically implying the sound of tyres or an engine under strain.

“The getaway car screeched around the corner and disappeared down a side street.”

“The ambulance screeched through the intersection, its siren wailing as it fought through the heavy afternoon traffic.”

C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Dialect

n. a famous, very strong type of rum from Newfoundland in Canada.

n. a specific brand of high-alcohol-content dark rum associated with the culture of Newfoundland.

“During their trip to Canada, they tried a glass of Newfoundland screech at a local pub.”

“The 'Screech-in' ceremony is a popular tradition for visitors to Newfoundland, involving a shot of the local rum and kissing a cod.”