audio noun Sound, especially when recorded, transmitted, or reproduced electronically, such as on a device or broadcast. The technician adjusted the audio levels before the live broadcast began. + audible adjective Loud enough or clear enough to be heard. His whisper was barely audible over the noise of the crowded café. + inaudible adjective Not loud or clear enough to be heard. His mumbled reply was almost inaudible from the back of the room. + audience noun A group of people gathered to watch, listen to, or read something. The audience rose to their feet as the orchestra finished the final movement. + audition noun A short performance given to demonstrate one's suitability for a role, job, or place in a group. Hundreds of dancers showed up for the audition, but only ten were chosen. + auditorium noun A large room or building where audiences gather for public events, speeches, or performances. The entire school gathered in the auditorium for the graduation ceremony. + auditory adjective Relating to the sense of hearing or to the process of perceiving sound. The test measured the child's auditory processing skills in a noisy classroom. + audit noun A formal, independent examination of financial records or a process to check accuracy and compliance. The company hired an outside firm to conduct an audit of last year's accounts. + auditor noun A person who officially examines and verifies financial accounts and records. The auditor spent weeks reviewing the company's expense reports for irregularities. + audiobook noun A recording of a book being read aloud, usually available to download or stream. She listens to an audiobook during her long commute to work every day. + audiovisual adjective Involving or using both recorded sound and images together. The museum uses audiovisual displays to bring historical events to life for visitors. + audiology noun The branch of medicine and science concerned with hearing, balance, and related disorders. She is studying audiology so she can help patients with hearing loss. + audiologist noun A healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats hearing and balance disorders. The audiologist fitted my grandmother with a new pair of hearing aids. + audiophile noun A person who is highly enthusiastic about high-quality sound reproduction and audio equipment. The audiophile spent thousands of dollars building a home theater with pristine sound. + applaud verb To show approval by clapping the hands, or to praise an action or achievement. The audience stood to applaud the orchestra after the final movement ended. + applause noun Approval expressed by a group of people clapping their hands, usually after a performance. Thunderous applause filled the theater as the curtain fell. + plaudit noun An expression of strong praise or approval, usually given publicly for an achievement. The young director earned plaudits from critics for her debut film. + fraud noun Wrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain, or a person who deceives others in this way. The company was fined heavily after investigators uncovered widespread accounting fraud. + fraudulent adjective Done with the intent to deceive for unlawful or unfair gain; dishonest. The company was fined heavily for making fraudulent claims about its products. + laud verb To praise someone or something highly, especially in a public or formal way. Critics lauded the film for its powerful performances and inventive script. + laudable adjective Deserving praise or admiration, especially because of good intentions or effort. Her laudable effort to raise money for the shelter inspired the whole town. + gaudy adjective Extremely showy or bright in a tasteless, overdone way. The hotel lobby was decorated with gaudy gold fixtures and flashing neon lights. + audacious adjective Showing a willingness to take bold risks; recklessly daring or unconventional. The audacious plan involved crossing the canyon on a makeshift bridge. + audacity noun A willingness to take bold risks or behave in a shockingly disrespectful way. She had the audacity to ask for a raise on her very first day at work. +