inside voice

American

[in-sahyd vois] / ˈɪnˌsaɪd ˌvɔɪs /

noun

a modulated, relatively calm voice, considered polite and socially appropriate when speaking indoors, as at home or in school or in an office (opposed to outside voice).

The students were reminded to use their inside voice and not shout their responses in class.

Etymology

Origin of inside voice

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"I've since learnt this was his inside voice," she added.

From BBC • Jul. 9, 2025

So if my point of view on a topic is pro it, then the inside voice can be against it.

From Salon • Jul. 26, 2023

In elementary school and to the Jan. 6 committee: “I need you to use your inside voice, Marjorie.”

From Washington Post • May 12, 2022

Glover said in the release that she wanted to be “an inside voice that can help CoreCivic realize the full potential of its purpose of helping people prepare for the next step in their lives.”

From Washington Times • Feb. 19, 2021

“Well, sometimes I have to remind myself to use my inside voice when I speak with you and Dad,” she says.

From "Muffled" by Jennifer Gennari

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023