adjective

inaudible

in-AW-duh-bul/ɪnˈɔːdəbl/

Impossible to hear clearly or at all.

Her voice is inaudible across the table, so her companion leans forward.

A woman speaks very softly across a small table while her companion leans forward, cups an ear, and gently signals that she cannot hear.

Etymology

inLatinnot

+audLatinto hear

+ibleLatincapable of being

The negative prefix turns the possibility of being heard into its opposite. An inaudible sound is too faint or unclear for the listener to perceive it.

In context

FrivolousFox ASMR1:33

wanted just pure normal whispers Not inaudible but understandable Audible whispers

DEEP, IN-YOUR-EAR WHISPERS | ASMR (Articulated & Breathy)

More examples

The announcement is inaudible over the roar of the crowd.
She gives an almost inaudible sigh.
His reply is inaudible on the recording.

Forms

inaudible

inaudibly adverb — In a way that cannot be heard.

Similar words

imperceptible: Imperceptible applies to anything undetectable by the senses, not just sound.
faint: Faint describes a weak sound that may still be heard.