Definition

Noun The amplitude level of undesired background noise. It refers to the intensity or volume of unwanted sound present in an environment, typically measured in decibels (dB).

Usage

The term "noise level" is used to quantify or describe the loudness of ambient, disruptive, or unwanted sound. It is a common metric in environmental science, workplace safety, acoustics, and urban planning.

Examples

• The noise level in the factory exceeded safe limits, so workers were required to wear ear protection.
• City regulations specify a maximum permissible noise level for construction sites during evening hours.
• We measured the noise level in the classroom to assess its acoustic quality for learning.

Advanced Usage

• Ambient noise level: The general background sound level of a given environment.
  • The ambient noise level in the forest was very low, allowing us to hear distant birds.
• Equivalent continuous noise level (Leq): A technical metric that averages noise energy over a specified period.
  • The report calculated the Leq, or equivalent continuous noise level, for the 24-hour period near the airport.

Variants and Related Words

• Noise pollution (n): The presence of excessive or disruptive noise in the environment, often considered a form of pollution.
• Sound pressure level (SPL) (n): A more technical term for the measurement of sound pressure, closely related to perceived noise level.

Synonyms

• Sound level
• Volume (of background noise)
• Acoustic intensity (in a technical context)

Antonyms

• Silence
• Quiet
• Low ambient sound

Related Phrases

• To monitor the noise level: To regularly measure and check the level of sound.
  • The environmental agency will monitor the noise level around the new highway.
• To reduce the noise level: To take action to make an environment quieter.
  • Installing double-pane windows helped to reduce the noise level from the street.

Noun

1. the amplitude level of the undesired background noise