A shrill sound is a high-pitched, piercing noise that can be unpleasant to the ears. Sometimes, we need to use different words to describe the same sound. Synonyms for shrill sound include screech, squeal, scream, yelp, howl, caterwaul, whine, and whine. A screech is a piercing sound, while a squeal is a high-pitched sound that is usually caused by excitement or pain. A scream is a loud and shrill cry, and a yelp is a sharp, high-pitched sound that is often heard from animals. A howl is a loud, long, and mournful sound, while caterwaul is a loud and unpleasant sound that cats often make. A whine is a high-pitched, complaining sound that is often seen in children and animals.