inaudibly

Inaudibly is an adverb used to describe sound or speech that cannot be heard by the human ear under ordinary conditions. It is employed when something is spoken, hummed, or emitted so softly, at a distance, or under masking conditions that it lies below the listener’s threshold of hearing. For example, a speaker’s words may be described as inaudibly spoken in a crowded room, or a distant signal may become inaudibly faint as it travels.

Etymology and form: the word consists of the prefix in- meaning not, plus audible, itself from Latin audire “to hear.” Inaudibly is the adverbial form related to the adjective inaudible, and it contrasts with audibly, which describes sounds that can be heard.

Usage notes: inaudibly often appears in descriptive writing, scientific observations, or transcripts to indicate that content is not detectable by ordinary listening. It is not typically used to imply secrecy or intent, but rather the physical or perceptual limitation of hearing in a given context.

See also: inaudible, audibly, audibility, silence.