Murmuring

Part of speech: verb, noun

Definitions

1. A continuous, low sound often arises from quiet expressions of discontent or reflection while indicating an indistinct exchange among multiple speakers
2. The act of producing a soft sound associated with muted complaints or thoughts can signify a collective yet unclear communication among individuals
3. A gentle, prolonged sound made by individuals often reflects subdued grievances or reflections while suggesting unclear conversations among a group of people

Etymology: The Latin "murmur" was itself imitative: it described the low, humming sound of many voices or of flowing water, and the Romans used it for everything from muttering to the roar of a crowd. Words built on the same rumbling sound appear across many languages, which is why "murmur" sounds the way it does. English picked it up from Old French "murmure," which had itself come down from that Latin noun, and the Middle English forms "murmur," "murmor," and "murmour" show the word settling into English spelling. The word has always carried that sense of indistinct sound rather than clear speech. A murmur is something heard but not quite understood, a voice pitched below the level of words. The present participle "murmuring" follows the same path, describing the continuous low sound itself: a stream murmuring over stones, or a crowd murmuring its disapproval without shouting it.

Synonyms: whispering, muttering

Antonyms: shouting, yelling