loud

/laʊd/
adjectiveBeginner
general

Producing a great deal of noise; characterized by high volume.

The children were loud in the playground.

The children were making a lot of noise while playing.

She spoke in a loud voice to be heard over the crowd.

She raised her voice to ensure everyone could hear her.

💡

Often used to describe sounds that are uncomfortably or excessively noisy.

informal

Bold or conspicuous in a way that attracts attention.

He wore a loud shirt to the party.

He wore a brightly colored, attention-grabbing shirt.

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In this sense, 'loud' refers to something visually striking rather than auditory.

Collocations

loud noisea very noisy soundloud musicmusic played at high volumeloud voicea voice that is very loud

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

loud and clearphrase
easily heard or understood
loudmouthphrase
someone who talks too much or too loudly

💡Pro Tip

Volume Context

Use 'loud' to describe sounds that are uncomfortably high in volume, such as loud music or loud voices.

Metaphorical Use

Remember that 'loud' can also describe something visually striking, like a loud shirt or loud colors.

Gold Rule

Primary Meaning

The primary meaning of 'loud' refers to sounds that are high in volume and often uncomfortable to hear.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'loude', from Old English 'hlūd', meaning 'loud, noisy, or clear'. Related to Old Norse 'hlýðr' and German 'laut'.

📝Usage Notes

The word 'loud' is commonly used to describe sounds that are uncomfortably high in volume. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is visually striking or attention-grabbing.

Word Breakdown

loud
high in volume or noise
root
English Dictionary