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 Cinema Audio Society honors excellence in mixing across dialogue, scoring, Foley, ADR and re-recording, while the Motion Picture Sound Editors’ Golden Reels celebrate sound editing disciplines including sound effects, Foley, ADR and music, across film, television and video games. —Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2026

In dialogue with Talita’s compositions, the Submarino Fantástico studio team created and edited the sound effects. —Kevin Giraud, Variety, 15 Feb. 2026

That means dialing down loud sound effects and keeping the lights dim but not completely dark. —Alyssa Ramos, Miami Herald, 14 Feb. 2026

For non-track and engine sounds, sound editor Gwendolyn Yates Whittle collected crowd noises and loop group recordings like chants and cheers, while rerecording mixers Gary Rizzo and Juan Peralta oversaw dialogue and music, and sound effects, respectively. —Beatrice Verhoeven, HollywoodReporter, 11 Feb. 2026

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