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

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

There's a thrilling version of Clocks that shudders with discordant guitar riffs before resolving into a powerful chorus; and an extended acoustic version of Sparks has fans swooning.

From BBC

"At the heart of it, it's still four or five people playing acoustic instruments and singing to God about life and faith," he said.

From BBC