Circumaural refers to headphones that completely encircle the ear, creating a seal against outside noise. But what other words can be used to describe this type of headphone? Well, there are a few. Over-ear, full-size, around-ear, and closed-back are all common synonyms for circumaural. Each word conveys the same basic idea: that the headphones fully encompass the ear to block out external sounds. Some brands use their own terminology, like the "over-ear noise-cancelling headphones" from Bose or the "around-the-ear studio headphones" from Audio-Technica. Regardless of the word used, circumaural headphones are known for their superior sound isolation and overall listening experience.