Definition

Adjective: 1. Repeating by reflection of sound: Describes a sound that is heard again because it has bounced off a surface, creating a repetition or resonance. 2. Resonant or reverberant: Describes a space or sound that is characterized by or filled with echoes.

Usage

The adjective "echoing" is used to describe a sound that is reflected back, or a place where such reflection of sound commonly occurs. It often conveys a sense of emptiness, vastness, or loneliness.

Examples

• The echoing sound of footsteps in the empty cathedral was eerie.
• We shouted into the canyon and listened to our echoing voices.
• The echoing halls of the old mansion made it feel cold and unwelcoming.
• Her echoing laughter filled the stairwell.

Advanced Usage

• "Echoing sentiment/thought/concern": Used figuratively to describe an idea or feeling that is repeated or shared by many others.
  • His speech contained sentiments echoing those of the founding fathers.
  • Many citizens have echoing concerns about the new policy.

Variants and Related Words

• Echo (noun/verb): The sound that is reflected, or the act of a sound being reflected.
  • The echo of the gunshot was heard for miles. (Noun)
  • The corridor echoed with their voices. (Verb)
• Echoey (adjective): Informal synonym for "echoing," describing a place with a lot of echo.
  • The bathroom was too echoey.
• Reverberant (adjective): Similar to "echoing," but often implies a continuous, deep, and rolling sound.
  • The reverberant boom of the thunder.

Synonyms

• Reverberating
• Resounding
• Ringing
• Recchoing

Antonyms

• Muffled
• Dead (as in acoustically "dead," meaning sound is absorbed)
• Silent

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To echo (someone's) words: To repeat or express the same idea as someone else.
  • The committee's report echoed the words of the initial investigator.
• A ringing/echoing endorsement: A very strong and public expression of support.
  • The popular mayor gave the candidate a ringing endorsement.

Adjective

1. (of sounds) repeating by reflection
   • a hotel with echoing halls