keening

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Gilgamesh’s lament is not the stylized keening of epic tradition—not Achilles’ highfalutin howls after Hector strikes down Patroclus—but something rawer, humbler, more recognizably human.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

Shift to Sport mode and the engine will hold at a high, keening rpm, trying to charge the battery faster than the driver can drain it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 25, 2025

When I set out to write this, I admit, I meant it to be as rueful as Earl’s keening deathbed monologue about “the goddamn regret.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 6, 2024

The tone of his voice is high, a keening sound.

From BBC • Oct. 19, 2024

Before I can make up my mind about him, I become aware that there are others moving toward the place, drawn by the old man’s keening.

From "Grendel" by John Gardner