earplug

noun

ear·​plug ˈir-ˌpləg How to pronounce earplug (audio)
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
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And passengers in first and business class on its long-haul flights will walk away with skin care products from U.K. luxury brand Bamford, as well as signature products such as a dental kit, earplugs, a cooling body gel and a sleep mask. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 18 June 2025 The facility’s psychiatrist gave her earplugs to help her sleep. Ellen Barry, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025 Although the music was a bit too loud for some students, who wore earphones and earplugs. Clara-Sophia Daly, Miami Herald, 1 June 2025 The refreshed amenity kits, in shades of cream and navy, will be available in the fall and will include Grown Alchemist skincare products, a bamboo toothbrush, Marvis toothpaste, earplugs, and more. Katie Nadworny, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for earplug

Word History

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of earplug was in 1820

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Cite this Entry

“Earplug.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earplug. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

earplug

noun
ear·​plug -ˌpləg How to pronounce earplug (audio)
: a device of pliable material for insertion into the outer opening of the ear (as to keep out water or deaden sound)

More from Merriam-Webster on earplug

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