---
title: "Loudness — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Loudness is your brain's perception of a sound wave's amplitude (intensity), measured in decibels. Learn how AP Psych pairs it with pitch in Topic 3.5."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/loudness"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Loudness — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Loudness refers to the perception of sound intensity or volume. It is how we perceive a sound as being either soft or loud.

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Pitch](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/pitch): Pitch refers to how high or low a sound is perceived to be. It is determined by the frequency of a sound wave.
- Decibel (dB): Decibel is a unit used to measure the intensity or loudness of a sound.
- [Timbre](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/timbre): Timbre describes the quality or character of a sound that distinguishes it from other sounds, even when they have the same pitch and loudness.