What term describes a sound that interferes with communication?

The term that best describes a sound that interferes with communication is "background noise." Background noise refers to any ambient sounds or activity that distracts from or obscures the clarity of the intended communication. This can include sounds from people's conversations, machinery, traffic, or any other auditory stimuli that make it difficult for individuals to focus on the primary source of communication.

While "environmental noise" is commonly used in a similar context, it typically refers to noises in the surrounding environment generally and does not necessarily focus on its impact on communication specifically. The primary distinction here is that background noise is more closely associated with hindering communication. In contrast, terms like static noise usually refer to interference in audio signals or sound quality rather than interference in communication clarity. Digital noise often concerns electronic signals and data transmission rather than the audible effect on communication in a conversational setting.