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

Yes, but: Women are less likely than men to sleep apart from their partner, use earplugs, sleep medication or other methods that significantly dull their senses, Atwood says. —Kim Bojórquez, Axios, 15 Aug. 2024

Loop earplugs are hugely popular and come in multiple designs, helping keep out background noise or providing total quiet. —Christopher Murray, Fox News, 25 July 2024

Beyond that, take a cue from Thewes and get acquainted with a pair of foam or silicone earplugs, or noise-canceling headphones. —Angela Haupt, TIME, 11 June 2024

And for the kiddos who don’t mind earplugs, EarPlanes also makes a version designed for smaller ears. —Blane Bachelor, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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)