earplug

noun

ear·​plug ˈir-ˌpləg 

1

: an ornament inserted in the lobe of the ear especially to distend it

2

: a device of pliable material for insertion into the outer opening of the ear (as to keep out water or deaden sound)

Examples of earplug in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Studies suggest that earplugs help improve sleep quality by blocking distracting, disruptive, or annoying noise around you. —Laura Schober, Health, 23 Apr. 2025

With the quiet mode on these earplugs, the Loop technology is designed for a tranquil recovery, enabling race fans to still enjoy the roar of the engines while preventing hearing damage. —Joseph Wolkin, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025

Otherwise, immediate resolutions to a loud songbird may just have to be some sound-proof headphones or earplugs. —Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Apr. 2025

If all else fails, purchase inexpensive silicone earplugs. —Tim Carter, Hartford Courant, 19 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for earplug

• debug
• humbug
• prodrug
• unplug
• antidrug
• mealybug
• multidrug
• chug
• doug
• drug
• dug
• hug

Medical Definition

earplug

noun

ear·​plug -ˌpləg 

: a device of pliable material for insertion into the outer opening of the ear (as to keep out water or deaden sound)