infrasound

[ in-fruh-sound ]

noun

1. sound with frequencies below the audible range.

infrasound

/ ˈɪnfrəˌsaʊnd; ˌɪnfrəˈsɒnɪk /

noun

1. soundlike waves having a frequency below the audible range, that is, below about 16Hz

infrasound

/ ĭn′frə-sound′ /

1. Sound whose wave frequency is too low (under 15–20 hertz) to be heard by humans. Some animals, such as elephants and whales, emit calls at infrasound frequencies.
2. See Note at ultrasound

Derived Forms

• infrasonic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of infrasound¹

First recorded in 1925–30; infra- + sound ¹

Example Sentences

Seismometers catch the tiniest of volcanic shudders while other sensors track infrasound, which are waves with a frequency too low for human hearing.

From Science Magazine

The lengthy signals are similar to seismic signals caused by roaring flames when pipelines explode on land, Heyburn and colleagues concluded, noting that the duration of the Nord Stream infrasound signals was similar to those detected during venting by underwater volcanoes.

From Science Daily

The Nord Stream events offer a rare opportunity to study seismic and infrasound signals from the rupture of an underwater gas pipeline, Heyburn and colleagues noted.

From Science Daily

For instance, the infrasound recorded in Southern Germany from the first Nord Stream event of 26 September lasted about 2000 seconds, while an impulsive event recorded at that distance would normally last no longer than about 600 seconds.

From Science Daily

These long-lasting seismic and infrasound signals are likely the result of vibrations caused by high-pressure gas venting rapidly from the pipeline into the water and atmosphere.

From Science Daily