keening

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Etymology 1.2 Adjective 1.3 Noun 1.4 Verb

[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

From Irish Caoineadh meaning lament.

[edit] Adjective

keening (not comparable)

1. Sharp, shrill, especially of a sound.

   The keening sound of a dentist's drill sets my teeth on edge"

[edit] Noun

keening (uncountable)

1. Exaggerated moanful wailing at a funeral or wake
2. (by extension) An unpleasant sound.

[edit] Verb

keening

1. Present participle of keen.