sounding board

American  

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.

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sounding board British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of sounding board

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

In the years before the transaction, Qatalyst served as a sounding board to the company, and built up credibility and understanding of the business and its story, Godbole said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

He has also signaled a more direct role in Mamdani’s early tenure, indicating he would serve as a sounding board for the new mayor as he navigates the demands of the office.

From Salon • Apr. 19, 2026

McInnes knows he is privileged to be able to use Ferguson as a sounding board after a glittering managerial career, including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues with United.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

Another part of the mental burden of being the spouse who handles the finances is that you need a sounding board for your ideas.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 10, 2026

Moss was often a sounding board for her as she worked through her issues.

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro

Related Words

• audience