Cry — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Cry
Cry (verb)
- to utter loudly, shout
- beg, beseech
- to proclaim publicly, advertise
Cry (noun)
- an instance of crying
- an inarticulate utterance of distress, rage, or pain
- outcry, clamor
Cry (verb) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
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to shed tears often while making meaningless sounds as a sign of pain or distress
"some kids started to cry even before the doctor had given them their shot"
-
to utter one's distinctive animal sound
"we knew that we were getting very close to the ocean when we could hear sea gulls crying"
-
to speak so as to be heard at a distance
"a mother crying for help"
Cry (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
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a loud vocal expression of strong emotion
"a cry of despair arose when the smoke of the bomb blast cleared"
-
a natural vocal sound made by an animal
"the lonesome cry of a coyote"
-
an attention-getting word or phrase used to publicize something (as a campaign or product)
"A chance to change America was the cry on which the candidate was hoping to win the White House"
-
an earnest request
"the king was deaf to their cries"
-
a sudden short emotional utterance
"cries of disbelief greeted the announcement of the surprise winner for best picture"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Cry
The most common words with a similar meaning to Cry:
Near Antonyms of Cry
Word Forms of Cry
Origin & Etymology of Cry
Middle English crien, from Anglo-French crier, from Latin quiritare to make a public outcry, perhaps from Quirit-, Quiris, Roman citizen
First known use: 13th centuryt
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Cry
- CEFR level: A2 English Vocabulary — Page 5
- Topics: Common Actions / Verbs
Words & Phrases Containing Cry
Frequently Asked Questions about Cry
What does "Cry" mean?
"Cry" means to utter loudly, shout. As an a verb and a noun, it is defined as: to utter loudly, shout. It has 8 distinct senses.
What is another word for "Cry"?
Other words for "Cry" include bawl, blub, blubber, sob, weep, call, sing and bay. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Cry" you intend.
What are different ways to say "Cry"?
There are 122 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Cry". Common alternatives include bawl, blub, blubber, sob, weep, call, sing, bay, bellow and holler.
How do you use "Cry" in a sentence?
Examples of "Cry" in a sentence: "some kids started to cry even before the doctor had given them their shot"; "we knew that we were getting very close to the ocean when we could hear sea gulls crying"; "a mother crying for help".
Is "Cry" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Cry" can be used as a verb and a noun, depending on the context.
Is "Cry" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As an A2-level word, "Cry" is typical of Cambridge A2 Key (KET), PTE Academic 30–42, TOEIC Listening & Reading 225+.
How do you pronounce "Cry"?
"Cry" is pronounced /ˈkrī/.
What is the origin of the word "Cry"?
"Cry" comes from Middle English crien, from Anglo-French crier, from Latin quiritare to make a public outcry, perhaps from Quirit-, Quiris, Roman citizen. First known use: 13th centuryt.