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 Story Dream Machine can also be used as a white noise machine and night-light. —Cheryl Fenton, Parents, 2 Nov. 2024

However, this did prove beneficial in the winter for white noise while sleeping and to keep airflow in the room going. —Amanda Ogle, Southern Living, 17 Oct. 2024

Link it to your phone and play your favorite white noise for an even better sleep experience. —WIRED, 9 Oct. 2024

Limit noise to prevent disturbances (if outside noise is loud, white noise can help). —Sanja Jelic, Verywell Health, 3 Oct. 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