sounding board

noun

1. a thin, resonant plate of wood forming part of a musical instrument, and so placed as to enhance the power and quality of the tone.

2. a structure over or behind and above a speaker, orchestra, etc., to reflect the sound toward the audience.

3. a board used in floors, partitions, etc., for deadening sound.

4. a person or persons whose reactions serve as a measure of the effectiveness of the methods, ideas, etc., put forth.

5. a person or group that propagates ideas, opinions, etc..

   He was more of a sounding board than a novelist.

sounding board

noun

1. Also called: soundboard. a thin wooden board in a piano or comprising the upper surface of a resonating chamber in a violin, cello, etc, serving to amplify the vibrations produced by the strings passing across it See also belly

2. Also called: soundboard. a thin screen suspended over a pulpit, stage, etc, to reflect sound towards an audience

3. a person, group, experiment, etc, used to test a new idea, policy, etc, for acceptance or applicability

Word History and Origins

Origin of sounding board¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

His parents both played professionally in volleyball, so they’ve been good role models and sounding boards for what to expect in the college journey.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It may be that you’re not 100% comfortable giving up too much control over your investment decisions, and merely want a sounding board.

Read more on MarketWatch

Paulson, too, had heard Greg Lippmann’s pitch—and, as he built a massive position in credit default swaps, used Lippmann as his sounding board.

Read more on Literature

The production has become a sounding board for a lot of women in the local scene.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Still, whether you’re new to investing or are a longtime saver, there may be times when you could benefit from a financial adviser, as a sounding board for your own plans if not outright guidance.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• audience