Synonyms for

Crying

Verb / ˈkraɪɪŋ / Another word for crying — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

shedding tears as a result of pain, distress, or sorrow

Synonyms & similar words

glaring clamant gross laugh exclaim cryout vociferation squall watchword call blazonout shoutout outcry yell shout egregious scream holler rallyingcry weeping insistent rank battlecry hollo weep weeping tearful sobbing blubbering whimpering sniffling bawling howling mewling lamenting wailing keening moaning groaning sighing complaining bewailing yowling ululating caterwauling

Synonyms by register

Formal

weeping lamenting mourning

Informal

bawling blubbering sniveling whimpering

Literary

keening wailing sorrowing

Antonyms

laughing smiling rejoicing cheering celebrating giggling

Common collocations

  • crying out loud
  • crying over spilled milk
  • crying shame
  • crying wolf
  • crying eyes
  • crying need
  • crying jag

Word family

noun cry
verb cry
adjective crying

Usage note

While 'crying' often implies sadness, it can also be used for other strong emotions like joy or frustration. Be mindful of context to avoid misinterpretation.

Example sentences

  1. The baby is crying because he is hungry.
  2. She couldn't help crying when she saw the sad movie.
  3. He was crying with joy after winning the race.
  4. I heard someone crying in the next room.
  5. She was crying her heart out after the breakup.

Quotes

  • Tears are words that need to be written. – Paulo Coelho
  • Behind every sweet smile, there is a bitter sadness that no one can ever see and feel. – Tupac Shakur
  • Tears come from the heart and not from the brain. – Leonardo da Vinci

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