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Murmuring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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murmuring

[ˈmɜːrmərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sound

A soft, indistinct sound made by a person or group of people speaking quietly or at a distance.

Synonyms

mumbling, muttering, whispering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
murmuring

Used to describe a continuous, low sound that people make when speaking softly, often when several people are talking quietly at once.

  • The murmuring of the audience filled the theater just before the show started.
  • She could hear the murmuring of the river in the distance.
muttering

Refers to speaking in a low, almost inaudible voice often when someone is frustrated, annoyed, or speaking to themselves.

  • She was muttering angrily after the argument.
  • He could hear her muttering about how unfair the situation was.
mumbling

Used when someone is speaking softly and unclearly, often because they are unsure, nervous, or not wanting to be heard.

  • He was mumbling something under his breath during the meeting.
  • I couldn't understand her because she was mumbling.
whispering

Describes speaking in a very soft voice intended to be heard only by a particular person or people, often to avoid being overheard.

  • They were whispering secrets to each other during class.
  • She whispered words of comfort to her friend.

Examples of usage

  • The murmuring of the crowd could be heard from across the street.
  • She could hear the murmuring of voices in the next room.
Context #2 | Verb

action

To make a low, continuous sound like the sound of people speaking quietly.

Synonyms

mumble, mutter, whisper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
murmuring

Used to describe a softly spoken conversation, often in a group, with indistinct words. It can describe the sound of a crowd or nature, not necessarily negative.

  • The students were murmuring among themselves during the lecture.
  • The murmuring of the river was very soothing.
mutter

Used when someone speaks in a low voice because they are annoyed, disgruntled, or speaking to themselves. Has a negative connotation and suggests dissatisfaction.

  • She muttered something under her breath as she walked away.
  • He muttered complaints about the service throughout the meal.
mumble

Refers to speaking quietly and unclearly, often because of nervousness, shyness, or unwillingness to communicate. Often seen as a negative or unconfident way of speaking.

  • He mumbled an apology and quickly left the room.
  • I could barely understand what she was mumbling.
whisper

Describes speaking very softly so that only the intended listener can hear. Used in scenarios where secrecy or privacy is needed, or to avoid disturbing others.

  • She whispered a secret to her friend.
  • He whispered sweet nothings into her ear.

Examples of usage

  • The stream murmured as it flowed through the forest.
  • She murmured her thanks as she accepted the gift.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many poets use the sound of 'murmuring' to evoke a peaceful and calming atmosphere in their work.
  • In literature, 'murmuring' often reflects inner thoughts or emotions, creating a contrast with louder actions.
  • Classic novels often describe characters murmuring as a way to indicate secrecy or intimacy in their conversations.

Psychology

  • Soft sounds like murmuring can have a calming effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety in listeners.
  • Studies show that quieter speech can lead to more focused conversations and better listener engagement.
  • Murmurs are often associated with comforting behaviors, like nurturing or caring, enhancing emotional bonds between individuals.

Pop Culture

  • The act of murmuring is portrayed in films as a sign of mystery or romance, adding tension to pivotal scenes.
  • Songs often include soft, murmuring lyrics to create an intimate atmosphere, drawing listeners into the emotion of the music.
  • In animated films, characters frequently murmur to convey feelings rather than speaking directly, reflecting subtlety in storytelling.

Nature

  • Murmuring is often used to describe the soft sounds made by wind rustling through leaves or by water flowing over rocks.
  • Certain bird species create murmuring sounds as part of their mating rituals, using soft calls to attract partners.
  • Nature enthusiasts often highlight the soothing quality of murmuring streams as a way to promote relaxation and mindfulness.

Origin of 'murmuring'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'murmurare,' meaning 'to mutter or murmur.'
  • In Old French, the word 'mormurer' means 'to murmur' or 'to speak softly.'
  • The use of 'murmuring' in English dates back to the 13th century, often describing soft sounds of nature or whispers.

The word 'murmuring' originated from the Middle English word 'murmurynge', which in turn came from the Old French word 'murmurer' meaning 'to murmur'. The sound of the word itself reflects the soft and indistinct nature of the sound it describes. Over time, the term has been used to convey a sense of quiet communication or gentle noise.

See also: murmur, murmurer.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,411, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.