| unwanted or harmful noise, as from automobiles, airplanes, or industrial workplaces. |

| noise pollution n. Environmental noise that is annoying, distracting, or physically harmful. Also called sound pollution. |
noise pollution n.
An annoying or a physiologically damaging environmental noise level.
| noise pollution (noiz) Pronunciation Key
Environmental noise, as from vehicles or machinery, that is annoying, distracting, or physically harmful. The physical effects can include hearing loss, tinnitus, stress, and sleeplessness. Noise pollution is usually considered in terms of its effects on human populations, though it is known to affect wildlife as well. |