Aftersound

An 'aftersound' is a lingering or residual auditory perception that persists for a brief period following the cessation of the original sound. It is the subjective experience of hearing a sound continue or fade away, even though the source has become silent. This phenomenon is related to the way the inner ear processes and interprets auditory information, where the vibrations of sound linger on the basilar membrane. The intensity and duration of the aftersound can vary, influenced by the original sound's loudness, frequency, and the surrounding acoustic environment. They can also occur independently of the presence of an echo or reverberation. Often, the term may be used to refer to any sonic after-effect, whether in the physical or psychological sense.

Aftersound meaning with examples

• After the concert concluded, a faint 'aftersound' of the music seemed to hang in the air, a gentle reminder of the energetic performance. The lingering notes felt like an echo even though no literal echo existed, carrying the vibe of the audience and orchestra.
• As the door slammed shut, a soft 'aftersound' of its impact remained, a brief vibration that seemed to echo in the otherwise silent room. It was the last evidence of a conversation that has just ended, leaving a slight feeling of anxiety.
• In the vast cathedral, the organ's final chord produced a rich 'aftersound' that slowly dissolved into the vaulted space, a testament to the instrument's power and the room's acoustics. Its lingering beauty, a silent serenade, created a spiritual feeling.
• Experiencing tinnitus can produce an unsettling 'aftersound', a constant ringing in the ears even when there is no external auditory stimulus. It can be a quiet or loud signal, constant or intermittent, and is almost always a form of discomfort.