acoustic

[uh-koo-stik]

adjective

1. pertaining to the sense or organs of hearing, to sound, or to the science of sound.

2. (of a building material) designed for controlling sound.

3. Music.

   1. of, relating to, or being a musical instrument whose sound is not electrically enhanced or modified.

   2. arranged for or made up of such instruments.

      an acoustic solo; an acoustic group.

noun

1. Obsolete.,  a remedy for deafness or imperfect hearing.

acoustic

/ əˈkuːstɪk /

adjective

1. of or related to sound, the sense of hearing, or acoustics

2. designed to respond to, absorb, or control sound

   an acoustic tile

3. (of a musical instrument or recording) without electronic amplification

   an acoustic bass

   an acoustic guitar

Other Word Forms

• acoustically adverb
• nonacoustic adjective
• nonacoustical adjective
• nonacoustically adverb
• unacoustic adjective
• unacoustical adjective
• unacoustically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of acoustic¹

From the Greek word akoustikós, dating back to 1595–1605. See acouasm, -tic

Word History and Origins

Origin of acoustic¹

C17: from Greek akoustikos, from akouein to hear

Example Sentences

I didn’t ask Shires about the nod to the track that was supposedly written for her, an unguarded acoustic number exploring the excitement and anxieties of a fresh passion, but she offered an explanation.

From Los Angeles Times

“Cowboys and Angels” is laid-back and jazzy, while the humid “Soul Free” similarly boasts funky flutes and a falsetto detour, and acoustic guitars and warm harmonies give “Heal the Pain” a Beatles-esque feel.

From Salon

Our music exams/auditions need a complete overhaul in order to embrace improvisation, sound-placement, acoustics, adaptability in sound creation — so many of these elements and ingredients come too late for many.

From Los Angeles Times

Super fan Anthony Mejia, a stay-at-home dad, drove two hours from Rancho Cucamonga to attend opening night at the gallery, where current and legacy members of the band performed a half-hour acoustic set.

From Los Angeles Times

The definition includes munitions, explosives and long-range acoustic devices, which are regularly used by U.S. law enforcement and are not exclusive to the military.

From Los Angeles Times