Keening is a traditional form of vocal lamentation or wailing, often associated with mourning the dead. The term originates from Irish and Scottish Gaelic cultures, where it refers to the ritualistic crying or singing performed at funerals to express grief. In folklore, keening is also associated with the Banshee, a spirit whose mournful cry is believed to signal an impending death. Historically, professional mourners, known as “keeners,” would perform keening at wakes and funerals, using their voices to channel and release communal sorrow.
Keening is characterized by a high-pitched, rhythmic wail or chant, and it plays an important role in the cultural expression of grief in Celtic traditions.