Keening

The keening whistle of the teapot signaled that the water was boiling.

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 young child stood by the graveside, keening for his pet dog that had passed away.

The women gathered in the cemetery, their voices intertwining in a mournful keening that honored the departed.