The term 'wail loudly' can be expressed in three different ways: BAWL (4 letters), KEEN (4 letters), and ULULATE (7 letters). Bawling is a loud, prolonged cry of distress or grief. It is often associated with babies and young children, but adults may also BAWL when they are overwhelmed with emotion. KEEN is an old English word that means to wail or lament. It is usually used to describe the sound of a funeral dirge or a sorrowful lamentation. Ululation is a long, high-pitched wailing sound made by people in some cultures to express joy or sorrow. It is often used in celebrations and rituals.