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

Frey: This cacophony of sounds, this loud sort of almost white noise. —Outside Online, 4 Dec. 2024

Smart white noise machine: on sale for $74.99 Original price: $99.99 (Amazon ) Need help falling asleep and staying asleep? —Christopher Murray, Fox News, 9 Oct. 2024

Also save 30% off their linen sheet sets—and to top it all off, the adjustable white noise machine, perfect for restless sleepers, babies, and even pets, is listed at $77, down from $110. —Paris Wilson, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Dec. 2024

The miniature white noise machine comes with 15 different sounds, including some more relaxing tones that could also create some ambiance for meditating or meeting deadlines. —Jessie Quinn, People.com, 27 Nov. 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