Question

Identify the meaning of the word 'shrill'.
A) Smooth
B) High-pitched
C) Angry
D) Terrible

Answer 1

Hint: The words are given in the question and those given in the options are all adjectives, i.e. they are used for describing a noun. The correct option is a word that is generally used to describe sounds or voices. Some synonyms of this word are soprano, treble, falsetto etc.

Complete answer:
The word ‘shrill’ refers to a voice that is very high, has a high frequency or high pitch. The words in the options are used to describe various things. Let us choose the one which has a similar meaning to that of ‘shrill’.

Now let us look into the given options:
Option A) Smooth – This is an adjective used to describe something that has an even or regular surface. For e.g. These tiles are extremely smooth. Thus, this option is incorrect.
Option B) High-Pitched – This refers to a voice that is very high or shrill. Some examples of such types of voices are soprano, falsetto etc. This word is the correct meaning of the word ‘shrill’ which is asked in the question. Therefore, this is the correct answer.
Option C) Angry – ‘Angry’ is an adjective used to describe the mood of an individual. It is characterised by feelings of annoyance, displeasure and hostility. This word is not the correct meaning of ‘shrill’. Therefore, this option is wrong.
Option D) Terrible – ‘Terrible’ is an adjective and is used to refer to something that is bad or serious. For e.g. I have some terrible news for you. This word is also not the correct meaning of ‘shrill’. Thus, this option is wrong.

Thus, the correct answer is Option (B) High-pitched.

Note: The word ‘shrill’ as we know is an adjective. But it can also be used as a verb whenever it is appropriate. For e.g. “Get out of my house!” she shrilled. It means to shout in a very high voice. ‘Shrill’ is also used as a noun at certain times. For e.g. I was started by a shrill while I was walking alone at night. Here ‘shrill’ refers to a high pitched sound that the speaker had heard.