decibel

/ˈdɛsɪbəl/

decibel

English Noun

Definition

A common measure of intensity ratio (e.g. for sound) that is one tenth of a bel on the logarithmic intensity scale. It is defined as dB = 10 log₁₀(P₁ / P₂), where P₁ and P₂ are the relative intensities.

Etymology

From deci- + bel.