acoustics

American  

[uh-koo-stiks] / əˈku stɪks /

noun

1. (used with a singular verb) the branch of physics that deals with sound and sound waves.

2. (used with a plural verb) the qualities or characteristics of a room, auditorium, stadium, etc., that determine the audibility or fidelity of sounds in it.

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acoustics British  

/ əˈkuːstɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as singular) the scientific study of sound and sound waves

2. (functioning as plural) the characteristics of a room, auditorium, etc, that determine the fidelity with which sound can be heard within it

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acoustics Scientific  

/ ə-ko̅o̅′stĭks /

1. The scientific study of sound and its transmission.

2. The total effect of sound, especially as produced in an enclosed space.

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Other Word Forms

• hyperacoustics noun

Etymology

Origin of acoustics

First recorded in 1675–85; acoustic, -ics

Example Sentences

But Grenell said that option posed myriad complications such as whether awkward safety measures—such as wearing hard hats—would be needed for audience members, and how acoustics might be affected.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 11, 2026

Recent tests reveal that some of these caves have surprisingly good acoustics.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

There’s also an indoor pool, which Joel had covered up so he could use the space as a music room, because of its excellent acoustics.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 9, 2025

Inside, the boat-like, wood-clad hall has an intimate, vineyard-style seating arrangement, with its superb acoustics shaped by Yasuhisa Toyota.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2025

Tiny's talking to Gary onstage, and because the acoustics are fantastic in our auditorium, I can hear exactly what he's saying even from the back.

From "Will Grayson, Will Grayson" by John Green and David Levithan