American Dictionary of the English Language

SCREECH, verb intransitive [See Screak and Shriek.]

1. To cry out with a sharp shrill voice; to utter a sudden shrill cry, as in terror or acute pain; to scream; to shriek.

2. To utter a sharp cry, as an owl; thence called screech-owl.

SCREECH, noun

1. A sharp shrill cry uttered in acute pain, or in a sudden fright.

2. A harsh shrill cry, as of a fowl.