ululation
/,ju:lju'leiʃn/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A long, loud, emotional, and often wavering vocal sound, typically expressing strong feelings such as pain, grief, joy, or celebration. It is often compared to a howl, wail, or cry.
Examples
- The ululation of the mourners filled the air during the funeral procession.
- A high-pitched ululation of triumph echoed from the winning team's supporters.
- In the distance, we heard the eerie ululation of a lone wolf.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Context: Ululation is a specific vocal practice in many cultures across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It is often performed by women during weddings, celebrations, or rituals, creating a rapid, trilling sound by moving the tongue rapidly while vocalizing.
- Example: The traditional ceremony was marked by joyful ululation from the women present.
Variants and Related Words
- Ululate (verb): To utter a long, loud, wavering cry.
- Example: The crowd began to ululate in celebration.
Synonyms
- Howl
- Wail
- Keening
- Cry
- Yowl
Idioms and Phrases
- To break into ululation: To suddenly start ululating.
- Example: Upon hearing the good news, she broke into ululation.
Noun
- a long loud emotional utterance
- he gave a howl of pain
- howls of laughter
- their howling had no effect