sound effect

American  

[sound i-fekt] / ˈsaʊnd ɪˌfɛkt /

noun

1. any sound, other than music or speech, artificially reproduced to create an effect in a dramatic presentation, as the sound of a storm or a creaking door. SFX

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sound effect British  

noun

1. any sound artificially produced, reproduced from a recording, etc, to create a theatrical effect, such as the bringing together of two halves of a hollow coconut shell to simulate a horse's gallop; used in plays, films, etc

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Etymology

Origin of sound effect

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

You hear the music of “Auld Lang Syne” on an old-timey organ, while John dons a Scottish accent and spins a tale about beasties while a wind sound effect blows in the background.

From Salon • Dec. 23, 2025

Dodger Stadium organist Dieter Ruehle has a long memory, playing a “meow” sound effect after each strikeout Wednesday.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2025

But with millions of restless, anxious app scrollers ordering up that rain on demand, its essential gorgeousness is now a commodity — just another sound effect, and sleep aid.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 26, 2023

Loud cheers rang out as he revealed he had got a seven in English Literature, followed by a fitting smash sound effect from his DJ.

From BBC • Aug. 28, 2023

A graphic popped up on the TV along with a cha-ching sound effect.

From "Millionaires for the Month" by Stacey McAnulty