Murmur: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'murmurare,' which means 'to murmur' or 'to grumble'.
• This term has been used in English since the late 14th century, mostly to describe soft, indistinct sounds.
• Phonetically, the word consists of repeated sounds that make it feel soft and soothing.

Literature

• Writers often use 'murmur' to convey secrecy or intimacy in dialogue, capturing hushed conversations between characters.
• Several famous poets have incorporated the sound of murmurs in their works, symbolizing emotions like love or longing.
• In stories, settings with murmuring sounds often create a tranquil atmosphere, enhancing mood and ambiance.

Psychology

• Murmuring can evoke feelings of comfort or calmness, often associated with peaceful environments.
• It plays a significant role in non-verbal communication, where the tone and volume of murmurs convey emotions.
• Studies indicate that people can bond more during quiet conversations, as murmuring can create a sense of closeness.

Music

• Murmurs can be mimicked through soft instrumental sounds, often used to create relaxing melodies.
• In some genres, background murmurs can add depth to the music, enhancing the overall listening experience.
• The use of murmuring vocals in songs can evoke nostalgia or evoke deep emotional responses.

Science

• In biology, the concept of murmuring can describe the sounds made by certain animals, like birds, during communication.
• Acoustically, murmur is used to describe low-frequency sounds that can be crucial for understanding animal behavior.
• In medicine, a heart murmur indicates turbulent blood flow, often detected via a stethoscope, showing essential health indicators.

Ranked #10,032, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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