What does "strident" describe?

The term "strident" describes sounds that are loud, harsh, grating, or shrill. It carries a connotation of being sharp and penetrating, often causing discomfort or irritation to the listener. This adjective is frequently used to depict voices or noises that lack a pleasant quality, making them intrusive or jarring.

For example, a strident voice might be one that is overly loud or abrasive, which can be unpleasant in conversation or performance contexts. In contrast, the other options refer to attributes that differ significantly from the meaning of "strident." Soft and soothing sounds are characterized by their gentleness, while bright and cheerful colors evoke positivity and warmth. Meanwhile, calm and peaceful atmospheres suggest tranquility and serenity, which are the opposite of the disruptive quality that "strident" implies.