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What Does “Drown Out” Mean?

Phrasal verb formed from base verb drown.

Drown Out
/draʊn aʊt/
phrasal verb B2

To be so noisy that other sounds cannot be heard over the top of it.

Definition of “Drown Out”

To make a sound so loud that it prevents another sound from being heard.

How to Use “Drown Out” in a Sentence

  • “The music drowned out our conversation completely.”
    A2 daily
  • “The sound of traffic drowned out the speaker's voice.”
    B1 conversation
  • “Protesters drowned out the announcement by chanting loudly.”
    B2 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Drown Out

Common Synonyms for Drown Out

Smart Synonyms for Drown Out — When to Use Each

overpower
when a sound completely dominates another
muffle
when a sound is suppressed or softened
mask
when one sound hides another without eliminating it

Antonyms of Drown Out

See all synonyms for “drown out” →

Common Mistakes with “Drown Out”

✗ Wrong: The music drowned our conversation.
✓ Correct: The music drowned out our conversation.
Why: The phrasal verb requires the particle 'out'
✗ Wrong: She drowned out by the noise.
✓ Correct: She was drowned out by the noise.
Why: Use passive 'was drowned out' when the subject is affected

Frequently Asked Questions About Drown Out

What is the meaning of "Drown out"?

To be so noisy that other sounds cannot be heard over the top of it.

How do you pronounce "Drown out"?

The IPA is /draʊn aʊt/. Two words: DROWN owt. Both words receive equal stress in normal speech.

What part of speech is "Drown out"?

"Drown out" is a phrase at B2 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Drown out"?

Common synonyms include overpower, muffle, overwhelm.

How do you use "Drown out" in a sentence?

For example: "The music drowned out our conversation completely."

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