sound-proof

The recording studio is sound-proof to keep outside noise from interfering.

Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Impermeable to sound: "sound-proof" describes a material, structure, or space that prevents the transmission of sound, making it unable to pass through. This is typically achieved through specialized construction or materials.
   • Not allowing sound to enter or escape: A "sound-proof" room or enclosure is designed to block external noise or contain internal noise.

2. Verb:

   • To make resistant to sound transmission: To "sound-proof" means to treat a space or object with materials or techniques that reduce or eliminate the passage of sound.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:

  • The recording studio has sound-proof walls. (The walls are designed to block external noise from entering.)
  • They installed sound-proof windows to reduce traffic noise. (The windows prevent sound from passing through.)

• Verb:

  • We need to sound-proof the basement for our band practice. (We must treat the basement to contain the sound.)
  • He sound-proofed the home office to ensure quiet video calls. (He made the office resistant to sound transmission.)

Advanced Usage

• "sound-proof barrier": a physical structure designed to block sound.

  • The highway is lined with a sound-proof barrier to protect nearby homes. (A wall that prevents traffic noise from reaching houses.)

• "sound-proofing material": substances used to achieve sound insulation.

  • Acoustic foam is a common sound-proofing material. (Foam used to absorb or block sound.)

Variants and Related Words

• Soundproofing (n): the process or materials used to make something sound-proof.

  • The soundproofing in the theater is excellent. (The installation or materials that block sound.)

• Soundproofed (adj, past participle): having been made sound-proof.

  • The soundproofed room is perfect for meditation. (The room has been treated to block sound.)

Synonyms

• Sound-resistant: less common, meaning able to resist sound transmission.
• Acoustically insulated: specifically treated to control sound.
• Noise-proof: similar in meaning, focusing on blocking unwanted noise.

Phrasal Verbs

• Sound-proof off: to separate an area by making it sound-proof.
  • They sound-proofed off the corner of the warehouse for a quiet office. (They created a sound-proof section within a larger space.)

Related Idioms

• Put a sound-proof lid on it: not a common idiom, but used informally to mean to completely silence something.
  • The manager put a sound-proof lid on the gossip. (He stopped all discussion effectively.)