What defines a 'spondee' in hearing testing?

A 'spondee' in hearing testing is defined as two stressed syllables. This term is important in the context of hearing assessments because spondee words are used in Speech Reception Threshold (SRT) tests. These tests determine the lowest level at which a person can hear and understand speech.

Using spondees ensures that the words are relatively easier for the patient to perceive, as both syllables carry equal emphasis, making them more distinct and less prone to confusion compared to words with varied stress patterns. This clarity helps audiologists accurately assess an individual's hearing abilities.

In contrast, the other definitions provided do not accurately reflect the concept of spondees. Unstressed syllables, only one stressed syllable, or a mix of syllable types would not provide the clear and consistent auditory cues needed for effective testing in this context.