infrasound

American  

[in-fruh-sound] / ˈɪn frəˌsaʊnd /

noun

1. sound with frequencies below the audible range.

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infrasound British  

/ ˈɪnfrəˌsaʊnd, ˌɪnfrəˈsɒnɪk /

noun

1. soundlike waves having a frequency below the audible range, that is, below about 16Hz

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infrasound Scientific  

/ ĭn′frə-sound′ /

1. Sound whose wave frequency is too low (under 15–20 hertz) to be heard by humans. Some animals, such as elephants and whales, emit calls at infrasound frequencies.

2. See Note at ultrasound

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Other Word Forms

• infrasonic adjective

Etymology

Origin of infrasound

First recorded in 1925–30; infra- + sound ¹

Example Sentences

Seismometers catch the tiniest of volcanic shudders while other sensors track infrasound, which are waves with a frequency too low for human hearing.

From Science Magazine • May 27, 2024

These long-lasting seismic and infrasound signals are likely the result of vibrations caused by high-pressure gas venting rapidly from the pipeline into the water and atmosphere.

From Science Daily • Jan. 3, 2024

The volcano is monitored with seismic and infrasound sensors, satellite data, a web camera and distant infrasound and lightning networks.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 15, 2023

It goes without saying that this is faster than satellites, winds, seismic waves and infrasound.

From Scientific American • Jun. 21, 2023

Neither is perceived by the ear, although infrasound can sometimes be felt as vibrations.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015