Whispering: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used when someone is speaking very softly so that only a few people nearby can hear. It might be for secrecy or not to disturb others.

• She was whispering secrets to her friend during class.
• The wind was whispering through the trees.

Refers to speaking in a low, continuous voice, often used to describe a group of people or a soft, indistinct sound. It can also describe gentle background noise.

• There was a murmur of agreement in the crowd.
• She heard a murmur of voices coming from the next room.

Typically used when someone speaks in a low voice, often complaining or speaking negatively about something. It carries a somewhat negative connotation.

• He muttered something under his breath and walked away.
• She was muttering angrily about the bad service.

Used when someone is speaking in a way that is unclear or difficult to understand, often because they are nervous or not articulating their words properly.

• He tended to mumble when he was nervous.
• I couldn't understand him, he was just mumbling.

This is used when speaking very softly, usually to avoid being heard by others or to create a sense of intimacy or secrecy.

• She leaned in closer, whispering secrets in his ear.
• The children were whispering during the movie so they wouldn’t disturb others.

This is used when speaking softly, often in a continuous and gentle way, similar to whispering but usually more prolonged and less distinct.

• The audience began to murmur in anticipation of the speaker.
• She murmured her approval quietly.

This is used when speaking in a low and barely audible voice, often because of irritation, annoyance, or talking to oneself. It has a negative connotation.

• He muttered something under his breath about the unfairness of the situation.
• She muttered angrily as she walked away.

This is used when speaking unclearly and quietly, often because of nervousness, lack of confidence, or not wanting to be fully understood. It can have a negative connotation.

• He tends to mumble when he’s afraid to speak up in meetings.
• I couldn't understand what she said because she was mumbling.