Stridence is a term used to describe a harsh, shrill, or grating sound. There are several synonyms for this word that convey similar meanings. One such synonym is cacophony, which refers to a discordant or unpleasant sound. Another synonym is discordance, which describes a lack of harmony or agreement. A third synonym is dissonance, which pertains to an unpleasant or jarring combination of sounds. Other synonyms for stridence include harshness, raucousness, and grating. Each of these words can be used to describe a sound that is unpleasant or annoying to the ears. By using these synonyms, writers and speakers can add variety and nuance to their language and more effectively convey their intended meaning.