silencer
/'sailənsə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A device for reducing noise: A "silencer" is a mechanical device designed to reduce the sound produced by a machine or instrument. In its most common usage, it refers to a device attached to the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine to muffle the noise of the exhaust gases.
- A firearm suppressor: A "silencer" is also a device attached to the muzzle of a firearm to reduce the noise and muzzle flash generated by firing. It is more technically known as a "suppressor."
Usage and Examples
As a device for reducing engine noise:
- The mechanic installed a new silencer on the car's exhaust pipe to make it quieter.
- Motorcycle silencers are required by law in many cities to control noise pollution.
As a firearm accessory:
- In the movie, the assassin attached a silencer to his pistol before the mission.
- Owning a firearm silencer is heavily regulated in this country.
Advanced Usage
"To fit a silencer": To install or attach a silencer to something.
- He decided to fit a silencer to his vintage car to pass the noise inspection.
In figurative or metaphorical contexts: While less common, "silencer" can be used metaphorically for something that suppresses sound, speech, or expression.
- The new censorship law acted as a silencer on free press. (Note: This is an extended, metaphorical use.)
Variants and Related Words
Suppressor (n): A more precise technical term for a firearm silencer.
- He applied for a license to own a suppressor for his rifle.
Muffler (n): Primarily used in American English as a synonym for an automotive exhaust silencer.
- I need to replace the muffler on my truck; it's gotten very loud.
Silence (n/v): The absence of sound; to cause to be silent.
- Silent (adj): Making no sound; quiet.
Synonyms
- Muffler: (for vehicle exhaust)
- Suppressor: (for firearms)
- Baffle: (a type of component within a silencer)
- Sound moderator: (a formal term for a firearm silencer)
Related Phrases and Compounds
- Exhaust silencer: Specifically denotes the silencer in a vehicle's exhaust system.
- Gun silencer: A common compound specifying the firearm accessory. (Note: This is listed here as a related compound phrase, not as the core definition of "silencer" alone).
Important Notes
- The term "silencer" is often used interchangeably with "suppressor" for firearms, though "suppressor" is technically more accurate as it reduces, but does not completely eliminate, the sound of a gunshot.
- Legal status and terminology for firearm silencers/suppressors vary significantly by jurisdiction.
Noun
- a tubular acoustic device inserted in the exhaust system that is designed to reduce noise
- short tube attached to the muzzle of a gun that deadens the sound of firing