English Reference
noun · verb · adjective · interjection

sound

n. · v. · adj. · interj.
US /ˈsaʊnd/ UK /sˈaʊnd/ sound UK spelling sounded, sounds

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    The acoustic properties of the hall ensured that every sound from the stage reached the back row with perfect clarity.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Geography

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

    n.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.

    Simple

    The ferry crossed the sound to reach the island.

    In context

    Navigating the sound required a deep understanding of the local currents and the hidden sandbars that shifted with each tide.

  3. 03 A2 Elementary

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

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

    Simple

    That sounds like a great idea for a weekend trip.

    In context

    The proposal sounds promising in theory, though the financial projections seem somewhat optimistic given the current market volatility.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Formal

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    The diplomat spent the afternoon sounding out his counterparts to gauge their willingness to compromise on the treaty.

  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    The architect confirmed that the building's foundations were sound, despite the visible cracks in the upper masonry.

  6. 06 B1 Intermediate

    adj.used to describe a very deep and peaceful sleep.

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    After forty-eight hours on duty, the surgeon fell into a sound sleep that even the hospital sirens could not disturb.

  7. 07 C1 Advanced British EnglishSlangInformal

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    I've known the landlord for years and he's always been sound regarding repairs and rent increases.

  8. 08 C1 Advanced British EnglishSlangInformal

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

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

Usage sound like · sound produce · sounds almost

While this sounds great on paper, it could mean losing money and clients for many, so they question whether they have to take it or not.

The Local· 14 Aug 2026

Their subsequent releases veered into a glossier pop sound and generally remained as successful.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Very common
Updated