Definition
Small inserts placed in the outer ear canal to reduce the level of sound reaching the eardrum, used in aviation training environments to protect hearing from prolonged exposure to engine, propeller, and cockpit noise.
Plain English
Soft pieces you push into your ears to block out loud noise so your hearing isn't damaged and so you can concentrate.
Context Anchor
Seen in discussions of cockpit noise, ramp noise, fatigue, and protecting hearing during flight training.
Why Pilots Care
Unprotected exposure to aircraft noise can cause permanent hearing loss, reducing the ability to hear critical radio calls and cockpit alerts over time.
Intuition Check
Earplugs do not have to block all sound to be useful. Their job is to reduce harmful noise while still letting the pilot function safely.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor reminded the student to wear earplugs under the headset before starting the engine for the run-up.
Example Sentence 2
Instructors often suggest foam earplugs during preflight briefings when discussing ways to manage cockpit noise levels.