echo Definition
- 1a sound that is reflected off a surface and returned to the listener
- 2a close parallel or repetition of an idea, feeling, style, etc.
Using echo: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "echo" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The echo of his footsteps filled the empty hallway.
Example
The echo of her laughter bounced off the walls.
Example
His words were met with silence, without even an echo.
Example
The echo of the song remained in my head long after it ended.
echo Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for echo
- reverberation
- resonance
- reflection
- repeat
- repetition
Antonyms for echo
- silence
- quiet
Idioms Using echo
echo through something
to be heard repeatedly in a particular place or situation
Example
The sound of the church bells echoed through the valley.
echo back
to repeat something that has just been said
Example
He echoed back her words, trying to understand what she meant.
echo in someone's ears
to be remembered or have an impact on someone long after the event has passed
Example
The coach's words echoed in her ears as she stepped up to take the final shot.
Phrases with echo
echo chamber
an environment in which a person encounters only beliefs or opinions that coincide with their own, so that their existing views are reinforced and alternative ideas are not considered
Example
Social media can create an echo chamber where people only see posts that align with their existing beliefs.
echo effect
a sound effect that creates the illusion of multiple echoes of a single sound
Example
The song uses an echo effect on the vocals to create a haunting atmosphere.
echo location
the ability of animals to locate objects by reflecting sound waves off them
Example
Bats use echo location to navigate and find prey in the dark.
Origins of echo
from Greek 'ēkhō', meaning 'sound'
Summary: echo in Brief
The term 'echo' [ˈɛkəʊ] refers to a sound that is reflected off a surface and returned to the listener. It can also refer to a close parallel or repetition of an idea, feeling, style, etc. Examples include 'The echo of his footsteps filled the empty hallway.' and 'The echo of her laughter bounced off the walls.' Phrases like 'echo chamber' and idioms like 'echo through something' extend the concept into metaphorical contexts.
