キーン

Alternative writings: きーん, きいん
Frequency:
1

An onomatopoeia for a sharp, high-pitched sound or ringing (e.g., tinnitus or a metallic screech).

AdverbAdverb Taking 'と'Onomatopoeic or Mimetic Word

Examples

飛行機が通り過ぎた瞬間、耳がキーンとした。

The moment the airplane passed, my ears rang sharply.

古いドアの蝶番が錆びていて、開けるとキーンと音が鳴る。

The old door hinge is rusted and screeches when opened.

検査で大きな音がしたせいか、しばらくキーンと耳鳴りが残った。

Perhaps because of the loud noise during the test, I had a ringing in my ears for a while.

2

An onomatopoeia for the sharp pain (brain freeze) felt in the head or teeth after eating/drinking something cold.

AdverbAdverb Taking 'と'Onomatopoeic or Mimetic Word

Examples

アイスを早食いしてしまい、急にキーンと頭が痛くなった。

I ate ice cream too quickly and suddenly got a sharp pain in my head.

冷たい飲み物で歯がキーンとしないようにゆっくり飲むといい。

Drink cold beverages slowly to avoid sharp tooth pain.