Mumble: meaning, definitions and examples

Mumbling typically occurs when someone speaks quietly and unclearly, making it hard to understand their words. This can happen due to nervousness, lack of confidence, or just not wanting to be heard.

• He mumbled his response during the interview.
• She mumbled something under her breath.

Muttering is low, quiet, and often unintelligible speech, usually expressing dissatisfaction, annoyance, or contempt. It often has a negative connotation.

• She muttered complaints under her breath.
• He muttered something about being late and hurried off.

Murmuring is often a soft, gentle, continuous sound. It can be used to describe a group of people talking quietly or a soothing background noise. It can also describe someone speaking softly to themselves or others.

• The audience murmured in agreement.
• He heard the murmur of the river as he relaxed by its side.

Used when someone is speaking quietly and unclearly, often because they are nervous or unsure.

• He mumbled his answer during the interview
• She tends to mumble when she talks to strangers

Appropriate when someone speaks softly, often in a low tone, usually to express affection, surprise, or when they don't want others to hear.

• He murmured sweet words to his baby
• They murmured in agreement as they listened to the speaker

This word is used when someone speaks in a low voice, often showing irritation or talking to themselves. It can have a negative connotation.

• He muttered complaints under his breath
• She muttered something incomprehensible as she walked away

Used when someone speaks in a very soft, quiet voice, often to keep the conversation secret or to avoid making noise.

• She whispered a secret into her friend's ear
• They whispered during the meeting to avoid interrupting