SCREECH (2)

Screech, n. A harsh, shrill cry, as of one in acute pain or in fright; a shriek; a scream. Screech bird, or Screech thrush (Zoöl.), the fieldfare; — so called from its harsh cry before rain. — Screech rain. — Screech hawk (Zoöl.), the European goatsucker; — so called from its note. — Screech owl. (Zoöl.) (a) A small American owl (Scops asio), either gray or reddish in color. (b) The European barn owl. The name is applied also to other species.