Sounds Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
sounds
[saสndz ]
Definitions
sound
Vibrations that travel through the air or another medium and can be heard when they reach a person's ear.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sounds |
Commonly used in everyday language to refer to everything we hear
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| noise |
Refers to unwanted or disruptive sounds; negative connotation
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| audio |
Usually used in technical contexts, referring to sound in digital or recorded formats
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| acoustic |
Often used in a musical or technological context, referring to how sound behaves in an environment or to non-electric instruments
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Examples of usage
- The sounds of birds chirping in the morning.
- The sound of waves crashing against the shore is so soothing.
music
Something that can be heard, especially when it is pleasant.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sounds |
Used to describe any audio waves, noises, or auditory experiences, often in general terms.
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| melody |
Specifically refers to the sequence of musical notes that are perceived as a single entity, often the most memorable part of a song.
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| tune |
Commonly used to refer to a melody, but can also mean the correct pitch of musical instruments; sometimes used metaphorically to refer to adjusting or aligning properly.
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| harmony |
Refers to the combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously to produce a pleasing effect. Often used in the context of music but can also describe agreement and peace in a non-musical context.
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Examples of usage
- The sound of a violin playing filled the room.
- The sound of laughter is infectious.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Sound travels as waves in a medium, like air or water, and cannot travel in a vacuum.
- The speed of sound is about 343 meters per second in air at room temperature, but itโs faster in water and solids.
- Human hearing ranges from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, allowing us to hear a wide spectrum of sounds.
Popular Culture
- The invention of the phonograph in 1877 marked the first time sounds could be recorded and replayed.
- In film, soundtracks play a crucial role in building emotion and enhancing storytelling.
- The rise of platform like Spotify has transformed how we consume and share sounds globally.
Psychology
- Certain sounds can trigger memories or emotions, a phenomenon known as 'auditory nostalgia.'
- Studies have shown that sounds affect mood; for example, upbeat music can improve happiness.
- White noise can help individuals concentrate by masking distracting sounds in their environment.
Art
- Musical compositions vary widely in texture, rhythm, and harmony, showcasing a vast range of sounds.
- Sound art has emerged as a unique form of creative expression, leaning heavily on the auditory experience.
- Experimental artists often use everyday sounds to challenge conventional understandings of music and art.
Origin of 'sounds'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sounds' comes from the Old English 'sund,' which meant 'to sing' or 'to sound.'
- In Latin, 'sonus' means 'sound,' and many words in English are derived from it, such as 'sonic' and 'resonate.'
- The term has evolved over centuries, reflecting changes in language and culture.
The word 'sound' originated from the Old English word 'sund', which meant swimming, sound or noise. Over time, its meaning evolved to refer to vibrations that travel through the air and can be heard by the ear. The concept of sound has been studied and explored by various scientists and scholars throughout history, leading to advancements in fields such as acoustics and music.
See also: resound, sound, soundless, soundlessly, soundness, soundproofing, soundstage, unsound.