acoustics

acoustics


a·cous·tics    Audio Help   (ə-kōō'stĭks)   

n.  
  1. (used with a sing. verb) The scientific study of sound, especially of its generation, transmission, and reception.
  2. (used with a pl. verb) The total effect of sound, especially as produced in an enclosed space: "Such annoyances are frequently caused by flaws in the acoustics rather than the performers" (Mel Gussow).
a·cous·tic    Audio Help   (ə-kōō'stĭk)   
adj.   also a·cous·ti·cal (-stĭ-kəl)
  1. Of or relating to sound, the sense of hearing, or the science of sound.
    1. Designed to carry sound or to aid in hearing.
    2. Designed to absorb or control sound: acoustic tile.
    3. Of or being an instrument that does not produce or enhance sound electronically: an acoustic guitar; an acoustic bass.
    4. Being a performance that features such instruments: opened the show with an acoustic set.
  2. Music
    1. Of or being an instrument that does not produce or enhance sound electronically: an acoustic guitar; an acoustic bass.
    2. Being a performance that features such instruments: opened the show with an acoustic set.
n.   Music
An acoustic instrument.

[Greek akoustikos, pertaining to hearing, from akouein, to hear; see kous- in Indo-European roots.]
a·cous'ti·cal·ly adv.
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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.


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