cacophonous

[ kuh-kof-uh-nuhs ]

adjective

1. having a harsh or discordant sound.

   Synonyms: raucous, grating, strident, dissonant

Other Words From

• ca·copho·nous·ly adverb
• unca·copho·nous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cacophonous¹

From the Greek word kakóphōnos, dating back to 1790–1800. See caco-, -phone, -ous

Example Sentences

Our street has been a cacophonous, messy construction site for so long it’s hard to remember what it was like before.

From Los Angeles Times

He has also wrapped some of the walls with stacked felt to prevent the environment from becoming cacophonous.

From Los Angeles Times

That gradually gave way to stunned discomfort and then restless muttering until Powell’s interception return led to a cathartic and cacophonous roar.

From Seattle Times

Now 54 and a photographer living in Austin, Texas, Wong still spends her summers listening to the song of the cacophonous insects.

From National Geographic

They were roared on by a cacophonous, rampant home support in a deafening Toumba Stadium.

From BBC

Related Words

• discordant
• noisy
• raucous