sound effects

plural noun

: effects that are imitative of sounds called for in the script of a dramatic production (such as a radio show) and that enhance the production's illusion of reality

Examples of sound effects in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The emotional reaction of viewers also owes a lot to the sound design that so deftly marries the actors’ voices, the music and accompanying sound effects. —Joan MacDonald, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

With toddlers, this might mean encouraging them to point to pictures, make sound effects, or predict what comes next. —Jessica Ewing september 15, Literary Hub, 15 Sep. 2025

Flashing lights and fog also help set the eerie scene, while spooky sound effects are broadcast through an FM channel to evoke an extra layer of horror. —Charlie Vargas, Oc Register, 12 Sep. 2025

Adobe's reveal shows an example of an editor using Firefly credits to generate sound effects for a London bus. —James Peckham, PC Magazine, 4 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sound effects

• analects
• architects
• dialects
• disconnects
• intellects
• interjects
• intersects
• recollects
• redirects
• affects
• aspects
• bisects

Kids Definition

sound effects

plural noun

: effects that imitate sounds called for in the script of a play, radio or television program, or motion picture