Hearing threshold

Similar term(s): hearing threshold shift.

The hearing threshold is the sound level below which a person’s ear is unable to detect any sound. For adults, 0 dB is the reference level.

A threshold shift is an increase in the hearing threshold for a particular sound frequency. It means that the hearing sensitivity decreases and that it becomes harder for the listener to detect soft sounds. Threshold shifts can be temporary or permanent.

Source: GreenFacts, based on H&M Hearing, Glossary of audiology terms 

Hearing loss

GreenFacts Summary on Personal Music Players & Hearing:

• 4. In what ways can hearing be impaired?

Deutsch: Hörgrenze
Español: Umbral de audición
Français: Seuil d’audition