Whispered: meaning, definitions and examples

🤫
Add to dictionary

whispered

 

[ˈwɪspərd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

soft speech

Whispered refers to speaking very softly, often to avoid being overheard. It can also imply a sense of secrecy or intimacy in communication.

Synonyms

breathed, hissed, mumbled, murmured, susurrated.

Examples of usage

  • She whispered a secret in my ear.
  • He whispered her name softly.
  • They whispered during the lecture.
  • The teacher whispered instructions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'whisper' comes from the Old English 'hwisprian', which means to speak softly or in a hush.
  • Related words can be found in various languages, such as the German 'wispern' and the Dutch 'fluisteren', all sharing a similar sound and meaning.

Literature

  • In many novels, whispers often signify secrets, enhancing the tension and intimacy between characters.
  • Famous authors, like Edgar Allan Poe, used whispers to evoke suspense in their stories, making readers feel immersed in mystery.

Psychology

  • Whispering is associated with sharing secrets, which can create a bond between people, increasing trust and intimacy.
  • Research shows that people are more likely to open up and share their thoughts when they engage in whispering.

Culture

  • In many cultures, whispering is part of traditional storytelling, where a storyteller engages listeners by sharing tales in a muted voice.
  • Some languages have specific words for the act of whispering, highlighting its cultural significance in communication.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and movies often utilize whispering to create an atmosphere of romance or mystery, making moments feel more intimate.
  • Famous music tracks often use whispered lyrics to evoke feelings of closeness or intrigue, like in songs from artists such as Regina Spektor.

Translations

Translations of the word "whispered" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sussurrado

🇮🇳 फुसफुसाया हुआ

🇩🇪 geflüstert

🇮🇩 terbisik

🇺🇦 прошептаний

🇵🇱 szepnięty

🇯🇵 ささやかれた

🇫🇷 murmuré

🇪🇸 susurrado

🇹🇷 fısıldanan

🇰🇷 속삭인

🇸🇦 همس

🇨🇿 šeptaný

🇸🇰 šeptaný

🇨🇳 低语的

🇸🇮 šepetani

🇮🇸 hvíslaður

🇰🇿 сыбырлаған

🇬🇪 ჩურჩული

🇦🇿 pıçıltı

🇲🇽 susurrado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,545, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.