Definitions:

1. In a way that is load, high, and unpleasant or painful to listen to. ADVERB
   • The maid jumped and began to scream shrilly.
2. In a way that is too forceful in its arguments or criticism. ADJECTIVE
   • These incidents were shrilly denounced in the news pages.
3. Loudly and forcefully. ADVERB
   • The arguments were shrilly rejected.
4. With a high-pitched and piercing voice or sound. ADVERB
   • The phone rang shrilly in the hall.
   • They sang rather shrilly.

Synonyms:

• penetrating
• piercing
• piercingly
• squeaking
• strident