The persistence of sound waves for a long time because of multiple reflections is called reverberation. Usually, this happens in big halls. Sound becomes too blurred and distorted to be heard in big concert halls because of reverberation. This can often lead to annoyance.
To overcome this problem, sound-absorbent materials, such as curtains, plant fibre, compressed fireboard, carpets, etc. are used in the auditorium.
These materials absorb undesired reflected sound and reduce reverberation.