Mournful sounds are often associated with sadness and grief. The term MOURNFUL SOUNDS can be broken down into three crossword solutions: WAILS (5 letters), SOBS (4 letters), and KNELLS (6 letters). WAILS are long, loud cries of distress or sorrow. SOBS are short, convulsive breaths that are usually accompanied by tears. Knells are the sound of a bell that is rung slowly and solemnly, often to mark a death or funeral.