Definition:
"White noise" is a type of sound that includes all the different sounds we can hear, mixed together. It sounds like a constant, soft noise, similar to the sound of a fan or static from a television. White noise helps to cover or "mask" other sounds, making it easier to concentrate or sleep.
In more technical contexts, white noise is discussed in relation to sound engineering, psychology, or sleep studies. It can be analyzed in terms of its frequency spectrum, which shows how all sound frequencies are present at equal intensity.
While "white noise" primarily refers to sound, in a metaphorical sense, it can also describe irrelevant or distracting information. For example, in a discussion, if someone refers to "white noise," they might mean background chatter that makes it hard to focus on the main topic.
There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "white noise," but you might encounter phrases like: - "Cut through the noise": To focus on what is important despite distractions. - "Tune out the noise": To ignore distractions and concentrate on what matters.
"White noise" is a helpful sound that can improve your ability to concentrate or sleep by masking other noises.