The spelling of the word "subaural" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is "sub," which is pronounced as /sʌb/. This is followed by "aural," which is pronounced as /ɔːrəl/. Taken together, the word is pronounced as /sʌbˈɔːrəl/. "Subaural" refers to anything situated below or beneath the ear, and is commonly used in describing headphones or audio devices that are placed under the ear rather than over it.
Subaural is an adjective that refers to something related to or occurring beneath the ear or involving the region below the ear. The term is most commonly used in the context of sound and audio, specifically to describe a type of headphone or sound system that operates in close proximity to the ear.
In the realm of audio technology, subaural headphones are those that are designed to rest on or around the ear, as opposed to over or inside the ear. They typically feature cushioned ear cups that create a seal around the ear, which helps to block out external noise and provide a more immersive sound experience. Subaural headphones are often favored for their comfort and ability to reproduce sound accurately, making them a popular choice for music listening, gaming, and studio recording.
The term "subaural" can also be used to describe certain types of sound waves or frequencies that have a lower range and are perceived as being below the threshold of human hearing. In the field of acoustics, subaural sounds may refer to those that have a frequency below 20 Hz, which is the lower limit of human hearing. These infrasonic sounds are often utilized in various applications, such as certain types of musical compositions, animal communication, and seismic studies.
Overall, the term "subaural" encompasses audio-related aspects that involve the area below the ear, whether it be headphones, sound waves, or frequencies.
Below the ear; subauricular.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word subaural is derived from two Latin roots: sub means below or under, and auris means ear. Combining these roots, subaural essentially means below the ear or under the ear.