audible

UK: ˈɔːdəbl | US: ˈɑːdəbl

Definition

  1. adj. able to be heard

  2. adj. clear enough to be perceived by the ear

Structure
aud <hear>ible <capable of>
Etymology

The word "audible" traces back to Latin audibilis, combining audire (to hear) and -ibilis (capable of). It entered Middle English via Old French, retaining its core meaning of "hearable." The morphemes reflect a logical progression: aud anchors the concept of hearing, while -ible adds the sense of possibility, creating a term for sounds perceptible to the ear.

Examples

  1. The speaker’s voice was barely audible over the noise.

  2. The dog whistle produces sounds not audible to humans.

  3. She turned up the volume to make the recording audible.

  4. His whisper was just audible in the quiet room.

  5. The alarm must be audible from all parts of the building.