Learn how to use the comparative “shriller” and superlative “shrillest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “shrillest”?

The comparative form of “shrillest” is “shriller”.

Example

Her voice is shriller than mine.

Example

The sound of the alarm clock is shriller in the morning.

What is the superlative form of “shrillest”?

The superlative form of “shrillest” is “shrillest”.

Example

Among all the birds, the peacock has the shrillest call.

Example

The siren on the fire truck is the shrillest I've ever heard.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are used with "shrill" to form the comparatives and superlatives. The forms "shriller" and "shrillest" are commonly used to indicate a higher degree of sharpness or high-pitched sound.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Shrill" follows the regular pattern of using "more" and "most" for forming comparatives and superlatives.

Expressions with similar meanings to “shriller”

more piercing

Used to describe a sound that is more sharp or high-pitched.

Example

The screeching of the brakes was more piercing than I could bear.

more strident

Used to indicate a sound that is more harsh or grating.

Example

The politician's speech became more strident as he raised his voice.

Expressions with similar meanings to “shrillest”

most piercing

Used to describe a sound that is the most sharp or high-pitched.

Example

The screeching of the train wheels was the most piercing sound I've ever heard.

most strident

Used to indicate a sound that is the most harsh or grating.

Example

The singer's voice was the most strident I've ever experienced.

Using than with comparative “shriller”

When using the comparative form "shriller" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "Her voice is shriller than mine." Here, "than" is used to show that the level of shrillness in "her voice" is higher than the level of shrillness in "mine."

How can I use this expression in context?

“shriller” and “shrillest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Voices

  The soprano's voice is shriller than the alto's.

  The soprano's voice is shriller than the alto's.

• 2. Instruments

  The violin produces the shrillest sound in the orchestra.

  The violin produces the shrillest sound in the orchestra.

• 3. Sirens

  The police car's siren is shriller than the ambulance's siren.

  The police car's siren is shriller than the ambulance's siren.

• 4. Bird Calls

  The parrot's call is the shrillest among all the birds.

  The parrot's call is the shrillest among all the birds.

Related idioms and phrases

Piercing eyes

Eyes that have a sharp or intense gaze.

Example

She looked at me with piercing eyes.

Nails on a chalkboard

A sound that is extremely unpleasant or irritating.

Example

The sound of the chalk on the blackboard is like nails on a chalkboard.