# earplugs

/ˈiɹˌpɫəɡz/ (US) · /ˈiəplʌɡz/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/earplugs
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

small soft pieces you put in your ears to block noise or water. You use them for sleeping, swimming, or loud work.

For teachers: small inserts worn in the ear canal to reduce noise exposure or keep out water. Typically sold in pairs and made of foam, silicone, or wax.

## Examples

- She wears earplugs when she sleeps at night.
- The construction workers wear earplugs to protect their hearing from the loud drilling all day.
- During the overnight flight, she inserted her foam earplugs and finally found relief from the engine drone and restless chatter around her.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.