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

1. a long loud emotional utterance
   • he gave a howl of pain
   • howls of laughter
   • their howling had no effect