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

There are also stunning rock gardens, century-old trees, and streams providing the perfect sound effects throughout. —Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 11 Nov. 2025

In terms of sheer ability, Brown has no trouble navigating these bustling beats, which are packed with rhythms, drops, switches, and sound effects. —Stephen Kearse, Rolling Stone, 10 Nov. 2025

Ever since the days before flatscreens, televisions have shipped with underpowered speakers that muddy every sound from dialogue to sound effects. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 28 Oct. 2025

Indeed, who doesn’t love a montage of contestants repeatedly falling on their backside to kooky circus music and sound effects? —Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 27 Oct. 2025

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