sound barrier

noun

: a sudden large increase in aerodynamic drag that occurs as the speed of an aircraft approaches the speed of sound

Examples of sound barrier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When asked about the sound from passing trucks, Merrill said that his students had considered a sound barrier but settled on the trees acting as a natural way of absorbing the noise. Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 23 Mar. 2025 Adding sound barriers and landscaped buffers can help reduce noise and maintain livability. Timothy “chaz” Stevens, Sun Sentinel, 5 Feb. 2025 Zoom in: Dawson is collecting bids to build sound barrier walls and players will only be allowed to use quiet paddles on most courts until those are installed. Kate Murphy, Axios, 29 Jan. 2025 Vegetation buffers, in particular, can enhance the aesthetic appeal of courts and create a natural sound barrier that aligns with community preferences for green spaces. Scott Miller, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sound barrier

Word History

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sound barrier was in 1939

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sound barrier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sound%20barrier. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

sound barrier

noun
: the sudden large increase in resistance that the air offers to an aircraft nearing the speed of sound

More from Merriam-Webster on sound barrier

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