1. Crying out in grief or pain: This is the most common meaning. Think of a loud, anguished cry, often associated with sorrow, suffering, or despair. It can be expressed by humans or animals.
Example: "The bereaved family wailed at the funeral."
2. Making a long, mournful sound: This can refer to sounds produced by inanimate objects, like a wind howling through a window, or the sound of a siren.
Example: "The wind wailed through the empty streets."
3. Complaining or protesting loudly: This meaning emphasizes the strong, negative emotion behind the wailing.
Example: "The workers wailed about the unfair working conditions."
4. Making a high-pitched, mournful sound (as a musical instrument): This is a less common usage, referring to specific instruments like bagpipes or certain types of horns.
Example: "The mournful wail of the bagpipes echoed through the highlands."
In general, "wailing" implies a deep sense of sadness, pain, or distress, conveyed through a loud, drawn-out sound.