sound effects

plural noun

: effects that are imitative of sounds called for in the script of a dramatic production (such as a radio show) and that enhance the production's illusion of reality

Examples of sound effects in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The sound is wider and more spacious, which comes across as a more natural and airy listening experience that gives games a more expansive feel, where details, dialogue and sound effects can have greater clarity and depth. — Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026 Aimed at kids, these new Smart Play sets are designed to make play more interactive than ever before by introducing light and sound effects without the need for app support. — Chris McMullen, Space.com, 17 Aug. 2026 And a lot of the sound effects and voice filtering, especially for the Lord of the Nazgul (John Stephenson), are more sci-fi than fantasy coded, which has a fascinating effect. — Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 7 Aug. 2026 The song, which incorporated amusement park sound effects, was released in 1962 and rose to the top of the charts. — Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for sound effects

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sound effects was in 1909

Rhymes for sound effects

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Browse Nearby Words

sound-dead
sound effects
sound-effects man
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Cite this Entry

“Sound effects.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sound%20effects. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sound effects

plural noun
: effects that imitate sounds called for in the script of a play, radio or television program, or motion picture
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