Keening

The keening screech of the brakes startled the pedestrians on the sidewalk.

The keening of the steam whistle signaled the departure of the train from the platform.

The keening shriek of the fireworks lit up the night sky.

The keening smell of rotten eggs filled the kitchen, indicating a gas leak.

The artist's brush moved across the canvas with a keening grace, expressing her deep longing for freedom.