Simple Explanation

The technique of using one type of sound to cover up or reduce the perception of other sounds.

Concise Technical Definition

Sound masking is the process of using a background sound, often in the form of white noise or other consistent noise, to obscure or reduce the perception of unwanted sounds. This technique is commonly used in environments like offices or healthcare settings to mask distracting sounds or speech, making the environment quieter or more private. By blending the unwanted noise with a masking sound, the audible difference between the sounds is minimized, making them less noticeable.

Layman-Friendly Analogy

Imagine being in a room where you can hear other people’s conversations clearly. Now, picture a fan running in the background—the sound of the fan covers up the conversations, making them harder to hear. That’s sound masking—using one sound to hide another.

Industry Usage Summary

Sound masking is widely used in environments where privacy and concentration are important, such as in open-plan offices, call centers, and hospitals. In these spaces, sound masking helps reduce distractions and protect confidential information by making conversations or other noises less audible. It is also employed in home theater systems to create a more immersive audio experience by masking background noises. In audio design and acoustics, sound masking is a critical tool for enhancing privacy and improving the overall acoustic environment in both commercial and residential settings.

Engineering Shortcut

The use of background sound, such as white noise, to reduce the perception of unwanted sounds.

Full Technical Explanation

Sound masking involves the introduction of a controlled background noise to reduce the perception of other sounds. This is achieved by generating sound that fills the frequency range of unwanted noise, making it less noticeable to the human ear. Commonly, white noise or pink noise is used as a masking sound because it contains all frequencies in a flat distribution or with a slight decrease in intensity, respectively. Sound masking is used in various applications, including offices, healthcare environments, and public spaces, to improve privacy, concentration, and comfort. In addition, sound masking plays a role in the acoustic treatment of rooms, ensuring that unwanted noise distractions are minimized, and the overall sound environment is more balanced.