What is tinnitus commonly described as?

Tinnitus is commonly described as a perception of noise or ringing in the ears that isn’t caused by external sounds. It can manifest in various ways, but the most recognized description is indeed the sensation of ringing. Individuals may also experience other auditory sensations like buzzing, hissing, or humming, but the term "ringing of the ears" has become representative of this condition in general discussions and medical contexts.

Understanding tinnitus as "ringing" helps in identifying the condition among patients, guiding appropriate assessments and interventions. The other options refer to different ear-related issues—such as hearing loss or vertigo—which do not capture the specific auditory phenomenon that tinnitus represents.