What does trill mean?
A trill is a rapid, fluttering sequence of repeated sounds. The word is especially associated with the bright calls of small birds, such as larks and wrens, but it can also describe a brief wavering or rippling note in a human voice. In music, a trill is an ornament that rapidly alternates between two neighboring pitches. As a verb, 'to trill' means to make such a sound or to speak or sing in a high, animated, trembling manner. The expression carries a musical and often cheerful suggestion: a voice that trills seems light, agile, and expressive. Trill is also used more broadly for delicate, rapid movement or repetition, as in a trill of laughter or a shimmering trill of notes. Its usefulness lies in capturing a distinctive quality of sound that is finer and more sustained than a single chirp but less forceful than a shout.
A rapid succession of repeated or alternating sounds, especially a bird's call, a fluttering vocal note, or a musical ornament.
"The singer's trill at the end of the phrase brought the audience to its feet."
The noun is especially common in descriptions of birds, voices, and music.
To make a rapid succession of repeated or fluttering sounds, especially as a bird calls or as a person speaks or sings in a high, animated tone.
"The bird trilled from somewhere beyond the garden wall."
It can be used intransitively for a sound and transitively for a phrase, song, or utterance that is trilled.
The plural is used for individual acts, sounds, or instances of trilling.
"Her voice filled the room with delicate trills."
The word 'trill' captures the moment a voice or bird seems to shimmer with rapidly repeated notes.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does trill come from?
The word developed in Middle English from forms associated with Old French triller, meaning 'to tremble, shake, or make a quivering sound.' Its ultimate origin is uncertain, and the sense developed from the idea of rapid vibration or fluttering movement to include bird calls, vocal effects, and musical ornament. Related French, Spanish, and English forms reflect the same tradition of describing a rapid, trembling sound.
Related word forms
How trill is actually used
The noun is commonly used for bird calls and musical ornament, while the verb can describe both sound production and a bright, animated way of speaking. It is usually positive or lively in connotation, though it can suggest exaggerated or affected speech when used critically.
Easily confused with trill
A trill is a fluttering or repeated sound, whereas a thrill is a sudden feeling of excitement or a stimulating sensation.