Subaudible: meaning, definitions and examples
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subaudible
[ sʌbˈɔː.də.bəl ]
sound perception
Subaudible refers to sounds that are below the threshold of audibility for the human ear. These sounds cannot be consciously heard but can still influence thoughts and behaviors, often studied in psychology and acoustics.
Synonyms
imperceptible, inaudible, unheard.
Examples of usage
- The subaudible frequencies were used in the audio experiment.
- Some advertisements use subaudible messages to persuade viewers.
- He recorded subaudible tones to test their effects.
- The subaudible background noise was barely noticeable but impactful.
Etymology
The term 'subaudible' is derived from the Latin prefix 'sub-', meaning 'below' or 'under', combined with 'audible', which originates from the Latin 'audibilis', meaning 'that can be heard'. The word was likely coined in the late 19th or early 20th century as researchers began to explore the effects of sound and both its audible and inaudible frequencies. The concept has been particularly significant in fields related to psychology, sound engineering, and media studies, where understanding and utilizing subaudible cues can enhance messaging and influence behavior without the audience's conscious awareness.