ululates
/ˈʌl.jʊˌleɪts/
VERB
1. To howl loudly or prolongedly in lamentation or joy
To produce a long, loud, wavering cry or howl expressing strong emotions such as grief, mourning, celebration, or joy.
1.1. Expressing grief and mourning
To make prolonged, mournful cries or wails to express sorrow, grief, or lamentation.
Synonyms
Examples
- In certain mourning rituals, participants ululates to express their grief.
Related Words
- bemoans
- bewails
- laments
- moans
- mourns
- sobs
1.2. Celebrating with joyful cries
To produce loud, high-pitched, wavering cries as an expression of happiness, excitement, or communal celebration.
Synonyms
Examples
- As the traditional music played, the crowd spontaneously joined in and ululates in rhythmic harmony.
- The vocalist's powerful performance made the audience cheer and ululates in appreciation.
- Amidst the celebration, the crowd joyously ululates, adding a rhythmic tone to the festivity.
Related Words
- cheers
- whoops
- shouts
- hollers
- cries
VERB
2. To produce a rapid and prolonged series of sharp noises with one's voice
To make a succession of loud, high-pitched, piercing vocal sounds that continue for an extended period.
2.1. Making loud and piercing vocal sounds
To emit a series of sharp, shrill, or high-pitched cries, often loudly and repeatedly.
Synonyms
Examples
- The night air filled with the eerie sound as the pack of wolves ululates in the distance.