The term 'shrill tone' can be described as a REEDY sound. A REEDY sound is a high-pitched, thin, and often piercing sound that is produced by certain instruments such as clarinets, oboes, and saxophones. It is also used to describe the sound of certain birds and other animals. The term 'REEDY' is derived from the Latin word 'REED, ' which refers to a type of grass with hollow stems that are used to make musical instruments.