Muttering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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muttering

[ˈmʌtərɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

speaking quietly

Speaking in a low, indistinct voice, especially when expressing discontent or dissatisfaction.

Synonyms

grumble, mumble, murmur.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
muttering	Muttering is often used to describe speaking in a low, unclear voice, typically because the person is upset or dissatisfied. He was muttering to himself after the meeting, clearly unhappy with the decisions
mumble	Mumble refers to speaking unclearly and quietly, making it hard for others to hear. This can happen when someone is shy, nervous, or not confident. He tends to mumble when he’s nervous, making it hard to understand him
murmur	Murmur is used for speaking softly and indistinctly, often in a gentle or soft manner. It can also refer to a low and continuous sound. The doctor murmured something to the nurse before leaving the room
grumble	Grumble is used when someone complains or speaks in a disgruntled way, often in a low voice. This word often carries a negative connotation. She started to grumble about the extra work she had to do

Examples of usage

She was muttering under her breath about the terrible service.
He walked by, muttering something about the weather.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

complaining quietly

A low, indistinct, and continuous vocal sound, often complaining or expressing discontent.

Synonyms

grumbling, mumbling, murmuring.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
muttering	Used when someone is speaking in a low, often irritated voice, typically when they are angry or frustrated. This word often implies secrecy or discontent. He kept muttering under his breath, complaining about the long wait. She was muttering to herself while searching for her keys.
murmuring	Refers to soft speaking that is usually harmonious or gentle, often used in romantic or soothing contexts. It can also indicate background or ambient sounds. The couple was murmuring sweet words to each other. He could hear the murmuring of the stream nearby.
grumbling	Typically used when someone is expressing dissatisfaction or complaints in a low, barely audible voice. This term has a negative connotation and suggests annoyance or disapproval. The employees were grumbling about the new policies. He went to bed grumbling about how unfair life is.
mumbling	Describes speaking quietly and not clearly, often because the speaker is nervous, shy, or inarticulate. It can also indicate that the person does not want to be understood. She was mumbling during her presentation, making it hard for the audience to understand her. He mumbled something about being late.

Examples of usage

The constant muttering in the office was getting on everyone's nerves.
He could hear the muttering of dissatisfaction from the crowd.

Translations

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

Origin of 'muttering'

The word 'muttering' originated from the Middle English 'moteren' which meant to utter words indistinctly or with a low voice. Over time, the word evolved to represent speaking quietly or complaining under one's breath. The act of muttering has been observed in various cultures and languages as a way to express discontent or dissatisfaction in a subtle manner.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,458, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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16455 meditate
16456 audacity
16457 dungeon
16458 muttering
16459 deponent
16460 saga
16461 contemptible
...