1
as in echoing
to continue or be repeated in a series of reflected sound waves
the stranded hiker's cries for help sounded throughout the canyon
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in seeming
to give the impression of being
the idea at least sounds plausible
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3
as in voicing
to make known (as an idea, emotion, or opinion)
a person who certainly isn't shy about sounding her opinions
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4
as in announcing
to make known openly or publicly
the grand opening of the region's newest and largest mall has been loudly sounded for months
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1
as in plumbing
to measure the depth of (as a body of water) typically with a weighted line
the pilot sounded the river to make sure we weren't in any danger of running aground
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2
as in plunging
to cast oneself head first into deep water
a whale suddenly surfaced and then, just as suddenly, sounded
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of sounding
William Earl, Variety, 22 Aug. 2025
Though the choice is ultimately David’s, his wife Pam becomes a critical sounding board.
—Taryn Finley, Refinery29, 18 Aug. 2025
Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Feb. 2026
This year, more than usual, a group of Florida lawmakers are clinging to a Biblical-sounding principle — and doing their best to ensure that the wages of sin are, at the very least, misery.
—Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for sounding
Noun
Through a mixture of internet sleuthing, preternatural good taste and a willingness to do whatever is necessary, Matthew quickly elevates his way to becoming a creative and emotional sounding board for Oliver — even as the singer’s entourage increasingly looks at him as a phony.
—William Earl, Variety, 22 Aug. 2025
Though the choice is ultimately David’s, his wife Pam becomes a critical sounding board.
—Taryn Finley, Refinery29, 18 Aug. 2025
Verb
Despite the expensive-sounding name, this is one of our most budget-friendly pasta bakes, built largely from pantry staples.
—Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Feb. 2026
This year, more than usual, a group of Florida lawmakers are clinging to a Biblical-sounding principle — and doing their best to ensure that the wages of sin are, at the very least, misery.
—Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for sounding
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sounding
draft
Noun
-
The money would be used for general city services such as emergency services, parks and sidewalk repairs, according to a draft ballot measure.—
Sandra McDonald,
Los Angeles Times,
11 Feb. 2026
-
Campbell’s 32 5/8-inch arm length — considered short for a left tackle — was the subject of scrutiny during last year’s pre-draft process.—
Peter Sblendorio,
New York Daily News,
10 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Sounding.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sounding. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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