white noise

noun

1

a

: a heterogeneous mixture of sound waves extending over a wide frequency range compare pink noise

b

: a constant background noise

especially : one that drowns out other sounds

2

: meaningless or distracting commotion, hubbub, or chatter

the white noise of policy and politics in America

—Joseph Nocera

Examples of white noise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The court cases, danger to democracy, lies, infidelities etc have become white noise. —Monica Sager, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024

One of the more experimental initiative of the Kemi mill project includes the creation of a white noise barrier using lime mud, designed to protect sensitive species from industrial noise pollution. —Daniela De Lorenzo, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024

Some practices, like using a white noise machine to drown out distracting noises, may help improve sleep. —Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 10 Oct. 2024

Hatch Rest Go Portable Sound Machine $40 at Kohls.com The Hatch Rest Go boasts 10 soothing sounds, including heartbeat, ocean, white noise, hush, and more, for little ones to drift off to. —Katrina Cossey, Parents, 24 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

white noise

noun

1

: an even mixture of sound waves extending over a wide frequency range

2

: a constant background noise

especially : one that drowns out other sounds

Medical Definition

white noise

noun

: a heterogeneous mixture of sound waves extending over a wide frequency range that has been used to mask out unwanted noise interfering with sleep

called also white sound