ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Lombard effect

Lombard effect is when we talk louder in noisy environments without even realizing it. Imagine you're at a carnival and you're trying to talk to your friend, but there are a lot of people talking and music playing loudly. You may notice that you have to raise your voice to be heard. That's the Lombard effect in action.

When we're in a noisy environment, our brain automatically kicks in and tells us to talk louder. This happens because we want our message to be heard over all the other noises. Even if we don't consciously realize it, our brains are working hard to make sure our message gets across.

Scientists have studied the Lombard effect and found that it's a natural response that happens in many animals, not just humans. Animals that live in noisy environments, like birds in a bustling city, will also tend to sing louder to be heard over all the noise.

So next time you're at a noisy party or out in a busy city, remember that your brain is working hard to make sure you're heard!