What does the term "strident" imply?

The term "strident" implies a quality that is harsh and grating, often relating to sound that is loud and unpleasantly strong. This word typically conveys a sense of sharpness or intensity that can be jarring to the senses, particularly in auditory contexts. For example, if someone speaks in a strident tone, it might be perceived as aggressively loud or annoying rather than gentle or pleasing. In contrast, the other choices describe sounds or qualities that are soft and appealing, which would not accurately reflect the meaning of "strident." Therefore, the selection of "harsh, grating" accurately captures the essence of the term.