What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ululation
Example
The ululation of the women echoed through the village as they celebrated the wedding. [ululation: noun]
Example
She ululated with grief at the funeral of her husband. [ululated: verb]
keening
Example
The keening of the women filled the air as they mourned the loss of their loved ones. [keening: noun]
Example
She was keening for hours after receiving the news of her father's death. [keening: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Keening is more commonly used and recognized in English than ululation. Keening is often used in literature and media, while ululation is less common and may be unfamiliar to some English speakers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ululation and keening?
Both ululation and keening are associated with cultural or traditional practices and may be considered formal or ceremonial in certain contexts. However, keening is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings, while ululation is less common and may be perceived as more exotic or unfamiliar.
