Mumbled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mumbled
[ˈmʌmb(ə)l ]
Definition
communication
Speak in a low, indistinct manner, almost unintelligible. Mumbling is often a sign of nervousness or lack of confidence.
Synonyms
grunt, murmur, mutter, whisper.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mumbled |
Use when someone is speaking in a low or unclear way, often because they are shy or not confident.
|
| mutter |
Use when someone is speaking in a low voice, often expressing annoyance, complaints, or secrets. This has a slightly negative connotation.
|
| murmur |
Use when someone is speaking softly and in a low tone, typically in a gentle or soothing manner, or when there is a quiet background noise.
|
| whisper |
Use when someone is speaking very softly and quietly, so that only the person nearby can hear, often to keep something private or secret.
|
| grunt |
Use when someone makes a low, rough sound, often to express annoyance, effort, or lack of interest.
|
Examples of usage
- He mumbled something under his breath.
- She mumbled her apology and quickly left the room.
- The professor mumbled through the lecture, making it hard for the students to understand.
- Don't mumble your words, speak clearly and confidently.
- I could hear him mumbling to himself as he paced back and forth.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often mumble when they feel anxious or shy, making them appear less confident in social situations.
- Mumbling can be a communication barrier, leading to misunderstandings in conversations.
- Non-verbal cues, like body language, could help listeners interpret muffled speech better.
Linguistics
- Mumbling often results in slurred consonants and vowels, which can distort the intended message.
- Variations in mumbling can differ across cultures; some people mumble more in informal settings compared to formal speech.
- Language development studies show that children may mumble as they transition from simpler to more complex speech patterns.
Pop Culture
- In films, characters often mumble to convey sarcasm or humor, emphasizing their lack of clarity.
- Mumbling has been a notable characteristic of various comedic portrayals in stand-up routines, highlighting awkwardness.
- Musicians like Bob Dylan have been known for their iconic mumbling style, creating a unique sound that resonates with listeners.
Education
- Teachers often encourage clear speech in students to avoid mumbling and improve communication skills.
- Public speaking courses emphasize the importance of projection to eliminate mumbling and engage the audience.
- In language learning, practicing enunciation can help reduce mumbling and increase conversational fluency.
Origin of 'mumbled'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'mumbled' comes from the Old French word 'mumbler', which means to speak indistinctly.
- Its roots may also be traced to the Middle English term 'mum', referring to silence or being quiet.
- It reflects the idea of speaking softly, possibly due to embarrassment or confusion.
The word 'mumbled' originated from the Middle English word 'momen', which means to keep silent. Over time, it evolved to 'mumble' in the 14th century, with the meaning of speaking indistinctly. The verb 'mumble' has been used in English literature since the Middle Ages, with various writers describing characters who mumble their words. The act of mumbling is often associated with uncertainty, shyness, or discomfort in social situations.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #14,512, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.
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