Murmuring: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.