Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

keening

noun
/ˈkiːnɪŋ/
Definition
A lamentation or wailing expressively, especially as part of a funeral ritual.
Examples
  • The sound of keening could be heard throughout the village as they mourned their lost loved ones.
  • In many cultures, women traditionally perform keening at funerals to honor the deceased.
Meaning
Keening is often associated with mourning and is characterized by emotional vocalizations made to express grief or sorrow.
Synonyms
  • Wailing
  • Lamentation
  • Grieving