What does shriekingly mean?
Shriekingly is an adverb that describes an action or quality as loud, high-pitched, and piercing, usually in the manner of a shriek. It can also convey that something is so funny, startling, or overwhelming that it might make someone shriek. The word is expressive and informal, giving descriptions a vivid sense of noise, exaggeration, or comic intensity. It is often used with qualities such as funny, loud, high, or energetic. Because it draws attention to the intensity of a sound or reaction, it is especially effective in conversational writing, humorous descriptions, and accounts of children's behavior or dramatic performances. In more formal contexts, a precise alternative such as piercingly or shrill may be preferable.
adverbIn a manner characterized by a loud, high-pitched, piercing cry. It can also describe something so funny or intense that it is perceived as causing such a cry.
- In a loud, high-pitched, piercing manner.
"The comedian's shrill, shriekingly energetic performance had the audience in stitches."
"The child shriekingly complained that the spider was still in the bathtub."
"Her performance was so deliberately awkward that it became shriekingly funny."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shriekingly come from?
Shriekingly was formed in the 19th century from the verb shriek and the adverbial suffix -ingly. Shriek itself comes through Middle English forms associated with a sharp, piercing cry; its exact deeper origin is uncertain, although it is related in sound and meaning to words such as screech and shrill. The derived adverb follows the ordinary English pattern of turning an adjective into an adverb.
Related word forms
How shriekingly is actually used
Informal and strongly expressive. It is more common in speech and informal writing than in formal prose, and it may suggest excessive loudness, sharpness, or comic intensity.