scream
UK[skriːm]US[skriːm]
v
to make a loud, high cry because you are hurt, frightened, or excited
v
to shout something in a loud, high voice
n
a loud, high cry or sound
Etymology
The word 'scream' originates from Middle English scremen, a word of uncertain origin, though it is likely onomatopoeic or imitative in nature, echoing the harsh, shrill sound it describes. It is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as Middle Dutch schreemen 'to scream'. The core logic of the word is sound symbolism, where the phonetic construction of the word itself—beginning with the consonant cluster 'scr-' and containing a long vowel—mimics the act of producing a loud, sharp vocalization. This direct link between sound and meaning has remained stable, evolving from a probable imitative cry into the standard modern term for a loud, high-pitched shout or cry.
Analysis
The word 'scream' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It is not productively formed from smaller, meaningful morphemes in modern English.
Examples
The children screamed with laughter on the roller coaster.
"Watch out!" he screamed as the car swerved.
She let out a scream of terror when she saw the spider.