Wail Definition & Meaning

wail
noun
  1. a cry of sorrow and grief; "their pitiful laments could be heard throughout the ward"
verb
  1. emit long loud cries; "wail in self-pity"; "howl with sorrow"
  2. cry weakly or softly; "she wailed with pain"

"Wail" in song lyrics

See how wail is used in real songs:

  • "Things I can try to make you move on the wail"
    (Da) Bush Babees f/ Mos Def — The Love Song
  • "Assailing and battering all hail or you'll wail"
    June Marx f/ Lone Ninja — Language Artillery
  • "They'll succumb on your trail you wail"
    Lone Ninja — Feudal Japan

Usage tips for "wail"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "wail" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for wail to find words that pair well.

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