Outcries

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Expressive or forceful vocal protests that convey strong feelings or demands
2. Spontaneous shouts or loud cries often made in response to emotional situations or events
3. Collective expressions of discontent or excitement, typically arising from groups in reaction to specific issues

Etymology: "Outcries" is the plural of "outcry", a noun for a loud public expression of protest or strong feeling. The plural form simply reflects several such expressions at once. The base word "outcry" is a compound formed in Middle English from "out" and "cry", and the related verb "outcrien" is recorded in the same period. The prefix "out" here carries the sense of "loudly" or "forth", so the compound describes a cry that is raised outward, into the open, rather than one kept private. That sense of a voice pushed into public view explains why the word came to describe collective protest.

Synonyms: shouts, cries, clamors, protests, outbursts

Antonyms: silence, quiet, calm, peace, stillness