reverberate
/rɪˈvɜː.bər.eɪt/ IELTSAcademic
verb
To make a loud sound that bounces off walls or other surfaces and keeps going. It can also mean a feeling, idea, or effect spreads and is felt widely.
- The alarm reverberated through the empty building.
- Her words reverberated in my mind all day.
- The news reverberated across the country.
Adinary Nuance
Reverberate is stronger and more vivid than echo or ring. Use it when sound seems to bounce and fill a space, or when an event has a wide, lasting effect. It often sounds more formal than everyday alternatives like “echo.”
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- vang vọng
- Spanish
- reverberar
- Chinese
- 回荡
- Japanese
- 反響する
- Korean
- 울려 퍼지다
Etymology
Reverberate comes from Latin reverberare, meaning “to drive back” or “strike back.” It entered English in the 16th century, first for sound and later for effects or emotions.
Common phrases
reverberate throughreverberate in my mindreverberate across the region
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is reverberate formal or informal?
- It is fairly formal. You will often see it in writing, news reports, and academic English.
- What is the difference between reverberate and echo?
- Echo is a simple repeat of sound. Reverberate suggests a stronger sound that keeps bouncing and filling space.
- Can reverberate be used for ideas or events?
- Yes. It can describe a strong effect that spreads widely or lasts a long time.
- How do I use reverberate in a sentence?
- Use it with a place, feeling, or event: “The sound reverberated in the hall.”