high-pitched

UK: ˌhaɪ ˈpɪtʃt | US: ˌhaɪ ˈpɪtʃt

Definition

  1. adj. (of a sound) having a high frequency or tone

  2. adj. (of a voice or instrument) producing sharp, shrill notes

  3. adj. (figuratively) emotionally intense or strained

Structure
high <elevated>pitch <tone>ed <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word combines "high" (Old English hēah, meaning "tall" or "elevated") with "pitch" (Middle English picchen, from Old English piccean, meaning "to thrust" or "fix," later evolving to mean "musical tone" via the idea of "setting" a note's frequency). The suffix "-ed" turns the phrase into an adjective. Originally used literally for sounds, it later extended metaphorically to describe tense emotions or situations.

Examples

  1. The soprano’s high-pitched voice filled the concert hall.

  2. A high-pitched whistle signaled the start of the race.

  3. The dog reacted to the high-pitched noise with a whine.

  4. Their argument grew more high-pitched as tensions rose.

  5. Bats communicate using high-pitched ultrasonic calls.