Making a sound:
* Sound: (general verb) - The bell sounded.
* Make a sound: (more specific) - The bird made a strange sound.
* Emit: (formal) - The machine emitted a loud buzz.
* Produce: (formal) - The instrument produces beautiful melodies.
* Ring: (for bells, phones) - The phone rang.
* Clang: (for metal objects) - The hammer clanged against the metal.
* Roar: (for loud, animal-like sounds) - The lion roared.
* Chirp: (for birds) - The birds chirped happily.
* Buzz: (for insects or machines) - The bees buzzed around the flowers.
Perceiving sound:
* Hear: - I heard a noise outside.
* Listen: (intentional) - She listened carefully to the music.
* Detect: (formal) - The sensors detected a sound.
* Recognize: - I recognized the sound of the doorbell.
Other related verbs:
* Echo: - The sound echoed through the valley.
* Amplify: - The microphone amplified the singer's voice.
* Muffled: - The sound was muffled by the curtains.
The best verb to use will depend on the specific context and the type of sound being described.