Ululant (o-u-lant) is an adjective used to describe a wailing sound, often a modulating one. The long howling of a wolf is frequently described as ululant. Ululant can also refer to a foreboding or dark sound. When I think of the word, the modulating cries of Muslim women at funerals come to mind.
The verb form of the word would be ululated or ululating. Ululation is the noun form of the word.
According to Webster’s Dictionary, the word dates back to the mid-1800s. However, other references trace the word to the Latin phrase ululatus, meaning howl or shriek.
“The ululant cries of the wolves echoed through the dark forest, sending shivers down the spines of nearby dogs.”
“The tornado siren created an ominous ululant wail that alerted everyone in the village to the approaching storm.”
Aspirational is an adjective used to indicate something positive that is wished for or something you have a strong desire to achieve. When used negatively, we might think of someone with social position or status as their objective. When used positively, I think of wanting to achieve by hard work or creative thinking.
Webster’s Dictionary seems to limit their word use to the social climbing parallel, but I think it can have a more positive connotation when connected to achievement.
In the verb form, we have aspiring, aspire, and aspired. All three are commonly used and easily understood.
“John aspired to be an Olympian and ran miles daily to build his strength.”
“Judy wrote her sister an aspirational letter that made a difference in both of their lives.”
Ululant and aspirational can be combined into a single sentence with a bit of imagination and effort.
“The ululant cheers of the fans filled the stadium, creating an aspirational mood that inspired our team to victory.”
“On September 11, the ululant sirens served as an aspirational call to action for the brave firefighters.”
