mutter
14 synonyms and 2 antonyms for mutter, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To speak quietly and indistinctly, especially in complaint or annoyance.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To speak quietly and indistinctly, especially in complaint or annoyance.
“He muttered something under his breath and walked off.”
Opposites
2. noun
A low, indistinct sound of speech.
“All he could hear from the next room was a faint mutter.”
How to use mutter
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
mutter under your breath
mutter a complaint
Etymology
From Middle English muteren, an imitative word echoing the sound of low, murmured speech.
Full origin of mutter →Frequently asked questions
What does “mutter” mean?
The word “mutter” means to speak quietly and indistinctly, especially in complaint or annoyance. In plain terms, to speak in a low, unclear voice, often when complaining.
How do you pronounce “mutter”?
“Mutter” is pronounced MUH-tuh (/ˈmʌtɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “mutter” in a sentence?
Here is “mutter” used in a sentence: “He muttered something under his breath and walked off.”
What is another word for “mutter”?
Words with a similar meaning to “mutter” include fumfer and mouth.
What part of speech is “mutter”?
Depending on how it is used, “mutter” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “mutter” come from?
The word “mutter” comes from Middle English. From Middle English muteren, an imitative word echoing the sound of low, murmured speech.
How many meanings does “mutter” have?
“Mutter” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to speak quietly and indistinctly, especially in complaint or annoyance.
