Reverberate: meaning, definitions and examples

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reverberate

 

[ rɪˈvɜː.bə.reɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

sound

To be repeated several times as an echo.

Synonyms

echo, resound.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reverberate

This word is generally used to describe the prolonged reflection of sound waves in an enclosed space, contributing to the persistence of the sound.

  • The thunderclap reverberated in the mountains.
  • The music's bass notes reverberated in the club.
echo

This term is commonly used when a sound is reflected off a surface and heard again. It can also be used metaphorically to describe repetition or similarities.

  • She shouted into the canyon and heard her voice echo back.
  • His speech echoed the sentiments of the public.
resound

This word is typically used when a sound fills a large area or is particularly loud and clear. It can be used to describe both literal and figurative impact.

  • The church bells resounded through the village.
  • Her words resounded with everyone in the audience.

Examples of usage

  • Her laughter reverberated through the room.
  • The gunshot reverberated in the empty street.
Context #2 | Verb

effect

To have continuing and serious effects.

Synonyms

affect, impact, influence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reverberate

This word is often used in contexts where sound echoes or an event causes a lasting effect, particularly in a dramatic or overwhelming way.

  • The loud music reverberated through the halls.
  • The speech reverberated through the community, sparking widespread debate.
impact

Best used when describing a powerful or significant effect or impression, especially with a sense of force or collision.

  • The new technology had a huge impact on the industry.
  • The car accident impacted his ability to walk.
influence

Use this word when referring to a more subtle, gradual effect on someone's opinions, behavior, or decisions. It implies a kind of sway or control that might not be immediately obvious.

  • Her parents' values influenced her career choices.
  • Advertisements can influence consumers' purchasing decisions.
affect

This term is suitable for general use when talking about something causing a change or influence on something else, usually in a straightforward manner without strong emotional or dramatic implications.

  • The weather can affect your mood.
  • The new policy will affect everyone in the company.

Examples of usage

  • The economic crisis reverberated throughout the country.
  • His decision reverberated in the political sphere.

Translations

Translations of the word "reverberate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reverberar

🇮🇳 गूंजना

🇩🇪 widerhallen

🇮🇩 bergema

🇺🇦 відлунювати

🇵🇱 rozbrzmiewać

🇯🇵 反響する (hankyō suru)

🇫🇷 réverbérer

🇪🇸 reverberar

🇹🇷 yankılanmak

🇰🇷 반향하다 (banhyanghada)

🇸🇦 يتردد صداها (yatardad ṣadāhā)

🇨🇿 ozývat se

🇸🇰 ozývať sa

🇨🇳 回响 (huíxiǎng)

🇸🇮 odmevati

🇮🇸 bergmála

🇰🇿 жаңғыру

🇬🇪 გამოხმაურება (gamoḳhmaureba)

🇦🇿 əks-səda vermək

🇲🇽 reverberar

Etymology

The word 'reverberate' originated from the Latin word 'reverberatus', which means 'beaten back'. The term was first recorded in English in the late 16th century. It is derived from the prefix 're-' meaning 'back' and 'verberare' meaning 'to beat'. Over time, the word evolved to represent the concept of sound echoing or having a lasting impact.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,784, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.