Glossary of Audiologist Terms

Want to speak the language of an Audiologist fluently? By the end of this guide, you’ll have a glossary of key Audiologist terms, complete with clear definitions and real-world examples. You’ll be able to confidently use these terms in conversations, presentations, and even job interviews. Plus, you’ll be able to identify jargon and fluff, replacing it with clear, concise language that gets results.

What you’ll walk away with

• A glossary of 20+ Audiologist terms: Defined with clarity and precision.
• Real-world examples: Showing how these terms are used in practice.
• Jargon filter: Recognizing and replacing buzzwords with concrete language.
• Communication confidence: Speaking fluently about Audiologist concepts.
• Interview readiness: Using the right terms to impress hiring managers.

What this is and what it isn’t

• This is a focused glossary of Audiologist terms.
• This is for Audiologists looking to sharpen their communication.
• This isn’t a general business dictionary.
• This isn’t a guide to becoming an Audiologist.

Audiologist Terms: The Essentials

Mastering Audiologist terminology is crucial for effective communication and collaboration. This section provides clear definitions and practical examples for key terms.

Audiogram

A chart that shows the softest sounds a person can hear at different frequencies. It’s the primary tool for assessing hearing sensitivity.

Example: An audiogram reveals a patient has mild hearing loss in the high frequencies, impacting their ability to hear speech clearly in noisy environments.

Tympanometry

A test that measures the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. It helps identify middle ear problems.

Example: Tympanometry shows a flat tracing, indicating fluid in the middle ear, possibly due to an ear infection.

Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs)

Sounds produced by the inner ear. Measuring OAEs helps assess the function of the outer hair cells in the cochlea.

Example: Absent OAEs in a newborn screening suggest possible hearing loss, requiring further evaluation.

Speech Audiometry

A test that measures a person’s ability to understand spoken words. It assesses both speech reception and speech discrimination.

Example: Speech audiometry reveals a patient can hear speech but struggles to understand words in background noise, indicating a need for hearing aids with noise reduction features.

Hearing Threshold

The softest sound a person can hear at least 50% of the time at a specific frequency.

Example: A patient’s hearing threshold at 1000 Hz is 40 dB HL, indicating a mild hearing loss at that frequency.

Decibel (dB)

A unit of measurement for sound intensity or loudness.

Example: A normal conversation is around 60 dB, while a rock concert can reach 120 dB.

Hertz (Hz)

A unit of measurement for sound frequency or pitch.

Example: Speech frequencies typically range from 250 Hz to 8000 Hz.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve.

Example: Sensorineural hearing loss can result from aging, noise exposure, or certain medications.

Conductive Hearing Loss

Hearing loss caused by a blockage or problem in the outer or middle ear, preventing sound from reaching the inner ear.

Example: Conductive hearing loss can be caused by earwax buildup, fluid in the middle ear, or a perforated eardrum.

Mixed Hearing Loss

Hearing loss that includes both sensorineural and conductive components.

Example: A patient with both age-related hearing loss and a history of ear infections may have mixed hearing loss.

Tinnitus

The perception of sound in the ears or head when no external sound is present. Often described as ringing, buzzing, or hissing.

Example: A patient reports experiencing tinnitus after exposure to loud music.

Hyperacusis

Increased sensitivity to certain frequencies and volume ranges of sound.

Example: A patient with hyperacusis finds everyday sounds like traffic or kitchen noises to be unbearably loud.

Cerumen

Earwax, a natural substance that protects the ear canal.

Example: Excessive cerumen buildup can cause conductive hearing loss.

Cochlea

The spiral-shaped part of the inner ear that contains the sensory cells for hearing.

Example: Damage to the cochlea can result in sensorineural hearing loss.

Auditory Nerve

The nerve that carries sound information from the inner ear to the brain.

Example: A tumor on the auditory nerve can cause hearing loss and tinnitus.

Hearing Aid

An electronic device that amplifies sound to improve hearing.

Example: A patient is fitted with hearing aids to compensate for their sensorineural hearing loss.

Cochlear Implant

An electronic device surgically implanted in the inner ear to provide hearing for people with severe to profound hearing loss.

Example: A child with profound hearing loss receives a cochlear implant to help them develop speech and language skills.

Assistive Listening Device (ALD)

A device that helps people with hearing loss hear better in specific situations, such as in a classroom or at a meeting.

Example: An FM system is an ALD that allows a student with hearing loss to hear the teacher’s voice more clearly in a noisy classroom.

Aural Rehabilitation

Therapy and strategies to help people with hearing loss communicate more effectively and improve their quality of life.

Example: Aural rehabilitation includes speechreading training, communication strategies, and hearing aid orientation.

Binaural Hearing

Hearing with both ears, which provides benefits such as improved sound localization and speech understanding in noise.

Example: Binaural hearing allows a person to determine the direction of a sound source.

Localization

The ability to determine the direction and distance of a sound source.

Example: A person with normal hearing can easily localize the sound of a car approaching from the left.

Speechreading

Understanding speech by visually interpreting lip movements, facial expressions, and body language.

Example: A person with hearing loss may rely on speechreading to understand conversations in noisy environments.

What a hiring manager scans for in 15 seconds

Hiring managers quickly assess a candidate’s Audiologist knowledge. They look for specific signals that indicate expertise and practical understanding.

• Clear definitions of Audiologist terms: Can you explain complex concepts simply?
• Real-world examples: Do you understand how these terms apply in practice?
• Ability to differentiate types of hearing loss: Conductive, sensorineural, mixed.
• Understanding of audiometric tests: Audiometry, tympanometry, OAEs.
• Knowledge of hearing aid technology: Features, benefits, limitations.

The mistake that quietly kills candidates

Using jargon without understanding it is a major red flag. It signals a lack of depth and practical experience.

Instead of saying: “We need to leverage synergistic solutions to optimize auditory processing.”

Use this when explaining treatment goals:
We aim to improve speech understanding in noisy environments by using hearing aids with advanced noise reduction features.

FAQ

What is the difference between an audiologist and a hearing instrument specialist?

An audiologist has a doctoral degree (AuD or PhD) and is trained to diagnose, treat, and manage hearing and balance disorders in people of all ages. A hearing instrument specialist typically has an associate’s degree or certificate and is trained to fit and dispense hearing aids.

What is the most common cause of hearing loss?

The most common cause of hearing loss is aging (presbycusis). Other common causes include noise exposure, genetics, certain medications, and illnesses.

How can I protect my hearing from noise exposure?

Wear earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to loud noises, such as at concerts, sporting events, or while using power tools. Limit your exposure time to loud noises and give your ears a break in quiet environments.

What are the signs of hearing loss?

Signs of hearing loss include difficulty hearing conversations, asking people to repeat themselves, turning up the volume on the TV or radio, and having trouble hearing in noisy environments.

What are the different types of hearing aids?

There are several types of hearing aids, including behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC), and completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids. The best type of hearing aid depends on the individual’s hearing loss, lifestyle, and preferences.

How do cochlear implants work?

Cochlear implants bypass the damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. An external sound processor captures sound and converts it into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to an internal implant that stimulates the auditory nerve.

What is tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)?

Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) is a treatment approach that aims to habituate patients to their tinnitus, reducing its annoyance and impact on their quality of life. TRT typically involves counseling and sound therapy.

What are some communication strategies for people with hearing loss?

Communication strategies include facing the person you are talking to, speaking clearly and slowly, reducing background noise, and using visual cues such as gestures and facial expressions.

How often should I have my hearing tested?

It is generally recommended to have your hearing tested every few years, especially if you are over the age of 50 or have a history of noise exposure. If you notice any changes in your hearing, it is important to see an audiologist as soon as possible.

What is the role of an audiologist in newborn hearing screening?

Audiologists play a crucial role in newborn hearing screening programs. They perform hearing tests on newborns to identify those who may have hearing loss, and they provide follow-up testing and intervention services for infants who do not pass the initial screening.

Can hearing loss be prevented?

While some causes of hearing loss are unavoidable, such as aging and genetics, noise-induced hearing loss is preventable. By protecting your hearing from loud noises, you can reduce your risk of developing hearing loss.

What is the cost of hearing aids?

The cost of hearing aids varies depending on the type, technology, and features. Hearing aids can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per ear. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of hearing aids.

What are the benefits of using two hearing aids instead of one?

Using two hearing aids (binaural hearing) provides several benefits, including improved sound localization, better speech understanding in noise, and a more natural and balanced sound quality.

How long do hearing aids typically last?

Hearing aids typically last for 5-7 years, depending on the type of hearing aid, how well it is cared for, and the individual’s lifestyle. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help extend the life of your hearing aids.

What is the difference between dB HL and dB SPL?

dB HL (hearing level) is a measure of hearing threshold relative to the average hearing threshold of a normal-hearing person. dB SPL (sound pressure level) is a measure of the absolute sound pressure of a sound.

What is the purpose of real-ear measurements?

Real-ear measurements are used to verify that hearing aids are providing the correct amount of amplification at different frequencies. These measurements are performed with the hearing aid in the ear and a probe microphone measuring the sound levels near the eardrum.

How do I clean my hearing aids?

Clean your hearing aids daily with a soft, dry cloth. Use a wax pick or brush to remove any earwax from the hearing aid openings. Avoid using water or solvents to clean your hearing aids.

What should I do if my hearing aid stops working?

First, check the battery to make sure it is not dead or inserted incorrectly. If the battery is good, check the hearing aid for any wax buildup or debris. If the hearing aid still does not work, contact your audiologist for assistance.

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