Audiometry (from , "to
hear" and
metria, “to
measure") is a branch of
Audiology and the science of measuring hearing acuity for variations in sound intensity and pitch and for tonal purity, involving thresholds and differing frequencies. Typically, audiometric tests determine a subject's
hearing levels with the help of an
audiometer, but may also measure ability to discriminate between different sound intensities, recognize
pitch, or distinguish speech from
background noise.
Acoustic reflex and
otoacoustic emissions may also be measured. Results of audiometric tests are used to diagnose
hearing loss or diseases of the
ear, and often make use of an
audiogram.