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
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
To read about this term in context:
GreenFacts Summary on Personal Music Players & Hearing:
Español: Umbral de audición
Français: Seuil d’audition