noun “sound”
singular sound, plural sounds or uncountable
- what you hear when something vibrates in the air or another medium
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The sound of the rain against the window was soothing.
- earshot, the distance within which something can be heard
The children were playing too far away to be within the sound of their mother's call.
- a narrow passage of water between the mainland and an island
They took a boat trip around the sound, admiring the scenic coastline.
- the organ in a fish that helps it control buoyancy
The chef prepared a dish using fish sounds, which was surprisingly delicious.
- a long, thin probe for dilating body cavities
The doctor used a sound to check for any obstructions in the patient's artery.
adjective “sound”
sound, comparative sounder, superlative soundest
- in good health
After the accident, everyone was relieved to find the driver sound.
- sturdy and reliable
The bridge was inspected and found to be sound, requiring no immediate repairs.
- logically valid and well-founded
The mathematician's proof was sound, leaving no room for doubt.
- describing sleep that is quiet and deep
After a long day of work, she fell into a sound sleep.
- intense or strong, often used to describe force
The boxer delivered a sound punch that knocked his opponent to the ground.
- legally correct and enforceable
The contract was sound, providing a firm legal basis for the partnership.
verb “sound”
infinitive sound; he sounds; past tense sounded; past part. sounded; ger. sounding
- to make a noise
The fire alarm sounded, and everyone evacuated the building.
- to give a particular impression when heard
His voice sounded strained over the phone, hinting at his fatigue.
- to have a basis in a specific area of law
The attorney argued that the case sounded in contract law.
- for a whale to dive deep into the water
After breaching, the whale sounded, disappearing into the ocean's depths.
- to try to discover someone's thoughts or intentions
I sounded out my colleague about the new project, but he seemed hesitant.
- to measure the depth of water
Before anchoring, the crew sounded the harbor to ensure it was safe.
- to use a medical instrument to examine or explore body cavities
The physician sounded the patient's lungs to check for any abnormalities.