sound-bite

1 of 2

adjective

ˈsau̇n(d)-ˌbīt 

: containing or characterized by sound bites

sound-bite politics

sound bite

2 of 2

noun

: a brief recorded statement (as by a public figure) broadcast especially on a television news program

also : a brief catchy comment or saying

Examples of sound-bite in a Sentence

Noun

His campaign relies on catchy sound bites.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Leo smiles easily, is quiet, calm, gentle and not the master of a sound-bite. —Anna Rowlands, Time, 12 May 2025

Executive compensation is inherently complex, and a thorough examination of its multiple facets, rather than fixating on a single sound-bite figure, is critical to evaluate whether the contract effectively aligns with shareholder interests. —Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 27 Sep. 2024

Noun

This season has become something of a cultural phenomenon both online and off, with viral clips, unhinged memes and the occasional sound bite trending across various social media platforms after a new episode airs. —Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 12 July 2025

Instead of highlighting Nashville General's progress, reporters selectively use sound bites to undermine Dr. Webb. —Andrea Williams, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1986, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1972, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sound-bite

• affright
• airtight
• albite
• alight
• alright
• aplite
• aright
• bainite
• birthright
• bobwhite
• bornite
• bullfight