What does sonic mean?
Sonic is an adjective relating to sound, especially the production, transmission, or measurable behaviour of sound waves. In engineering, physics, and aviation, it commonly appears in expressions associated with the speed of sound, such as sonic speed and sonic boom. In music, film, and other media, it can function more broadly: a sonic effect is an audible effect produced electronically or through careful sound design, while a sonic landscape describes the overall character of the sounds heard in a place or work. The word is related to the same Latin root found in such words as sonorous, consonant, and unison. Because it is associated with scientific ideas as well as cultural and artistic practices, sonic carries a generally modern, technical tone without being restricted to technical usage. It should not be confused with sonorous, which focuses more specifically on fullness, depth, or resonance of sound.
adjectiveRelating to sound or to the production and transmission of sound. It can also describe something travelling at or approaching the speed of sound.
- Relating to sound, sound waves, or the production and transmission of sound.
- Travelling at or approaching the speed of sound.
"The engineer adjusted the sonic qualities of the recording to give the narration greater clarity."
"The laboratory is equipped to study sonic effects produced by high-energy pressure waves."
"The aircraft climbed above the sonic speed threshold during its test flight."
Sonic travels through air as pressure waves, so the word links an entire scientific field to the sounds people hear every day.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sonic come from?
Sonic was formed in the 19th century from the Latin root sonus, meaning “sound,” with the suffix -ic, a form meaning “relating to.” The same root underlies English words including sonorous, consonant, dissonant, and unison. The word initially developed primarily in scientific contexts before becoming common in descriptions of music, sound design, and other auditory phenomena.
Related word forms
How sonic is actually used
In technical contexts, especially aviation and physics, it usually means relating to the speed of sound. In arts and media, it often serves as a broader synonym for acoustic or sound-based. It is not normally used to describe a person.
Easily confused with sonic
Sonic is a broad term relating to sound, whereas sonorous specifically describes a sound that is full, deep, or resonant.