Wail/weɪl/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Intense Emotion Use 'wail' for expressing strong emotions, usually in negative situations. He wailed in frustration after failing the exam. Pro Tip 2/3Loudness 'Wail' implies a loud and uncontrollable crying, more intense than a whimper. The baby wailed until her parents comforted her. Pro Tip 3/3Public Display Wailing often happens in public or shared grief as a collective expression of sorrow. The community wailed together at the memorial service.