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sound

n. · v. · adj. · interj.
US //ˈsaʊnd// UK //sˈaʊnd// sound
  1. 1 something you hear (n.)
    A1 Beginner

    something that you can hear or that is made by vibrations.

    a sensation perceived by the ear caused by vibrations transmitted through a medium such as air or water.

    Example

    The sound of the rain on the roof helped me fall asleep.

    Example

    The acoustic properties of the hall ensured that every sound from the stage reached the back row with perfect clarity.
  2. 2 geography (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Geography

    a narrow area of water that connects two larger areas of water.

    a long, relatively wide passage of ocean water or an inlet, often connecting two larger bodies of water or separating an island from the mainland.

    Example

    The ferry crossed the sound to reach the island.

    Example

    Navigating the sound required a deep understanding of the local currents and the hidden sandbars that shifted with each tide.
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  1. 3 to seem or appear (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    to give a certain impression when you hear or read about something.

    to convey a specific impression or quality when heard or described; functions as a copular verb.

    Example

    That sounds like a great idea for a weekend trip.

    Example

    The proposal sounds promising in theory, though the financial projections seem somewhat optimistic given the current market volatility.
  2. 4 to check depth or opinions (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    to try to find out what someone thinks or how deep water is.

    to measure the depth of water or, figuratively, to examine or probe someone's thoughts and intentions.

    Example

    I will sound him out about the new project before the meeting.

    Example

    The diplomat spent the afternoon sounding out his counterparts to gauge their willingness to compromise on the treaty.
  3. 5 healthy or solid (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    in good condition, healthy, or based on good evidence.

    physically healthy, structurally stable, or logically valid and reliable.

    Example

    The doctor said he has a sound heart and is very fit.

    Example

    The architect confirmed that the building's foundations were sound, despite the visible cracks in the upper masonry.
  4. 6 deep sleep (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    used to describe a very deep and peaceful sleep.

    referring to sleep that is deep, uninterrupted, and heavy.

    Example

    She was in a sound sleep and didn't hear the phone ring.

    Example

    After forty-eight hours on duty, the surgeon fell into a sound sleep that even the hospital sirens could not disturb.
  5. 7 good or likable (adj.)
    C1 Advanced British English Slang Informal

    used to say that someone is a good person or something is okay.

    denoting a person who is dependable and likable, or a situation that is satisfactory.

    Example

    He's a sound guy; he helped me move house last week.

    Example

    I've known the landlord for years and he's always been sound regarding repairs and rent increases.
  6. 8 agreement (interj.)
    C1 Advanced British English Slang Informal

    a way to say 'yes', 'okay', or 'I understand'.

    used as an exclamation to express agreement, understanding, or approval.

    Example

    "I'll meet you at eight." "Sound, see you then."

    Example

    When I told him the plan for the weekend, he just nodded and said, "Sound," before heading out the door.
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