Refers to a sound made by something, often implying an identifiable source or a sound that draws attention. Commonly used when a sound is heard unexpectedly or when describing ambient sounds.
I heard a noise from the next room.
I woke up because of a strange sound in the middle of the night.
I heard a noise in the next room.
The thief walked without making a sound.
I noticed a noise outside and looked out.
I woke up in the middle of the night because of a noise.