Crossword Genius

Noise inhibitor quietly accepted by listeners (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

earplug

'noise inhibitor' is the definition.
(an earplug stops you hearing noise)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for earplug that I've seen before include "Sound excluder" , "It blocks out sound" , "It's used to prevent entry of noise or water" , "Personal defence against noise (or water)" , "Noise reducer" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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