background noise

noun

: undesired sound that is heard in a radio broadcast, a tape recording, etc.
The recording had a lot of background noise.

Examples of background noise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Karen of sidewalks Screeching tires have become almost background noise to the Mulherens, who hear speeding drivers slam on their brakes every day. Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 29 Dec. 2025 Agents and general managers calling the new executive vice president of the Denver Nuggets around Thanksgiving might’ve heard an unusual but unmistakable background noise through the phone. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 25 Dec. 2025 This, however, all becomes background noise as the students face off against the principal over an oppressive, prank-preventing surveillance system. Anastasia Sanger, Glamour, 22 Dec. 2025 But without action, warnings are little more than background noise. Brandi Hicken, Time, 12 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for background noise

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Cite this Entry

“Background noise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/background%20noise. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.

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