mumble
MUHM-buhl
Mumble (verb) means to speak quietly and unclearly, so words are hard to make out. Example: “He mumbled an apology and left the room.”
verb
1
To speak quietly and unclearly, so words are hard to make out.
"He mumbled an apology and left the room."
"Stop mumbling and speak up so I can hear you."
How to use mumble
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo talk in a low, unclear voice.
Common pairings
mumble a response
mumble under your breath
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Word forms
- Plural
- mumbles
- Third person singular
- mumbles
- Past tense
- mumbled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ an apology and left the room.
Etymology
From Middle English momelen, related to "mum" (silent); similar words exist in German and Dutch for indistinct chewing or muttering.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for mumble
See all rhymes for mumble →Frequently asked questions
What does “mumble” mean?
The word “mumble” means to speak quietly and unclearly, so words are hard to make out. In plain terms, to talk in a low, unclear voice.
How do you pronounce “mumble”?
“Mumble” is pronounced MUHM-buhl (/ˈmʌmbəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “mumble” in a sentence?
Here is “mumble” used in a sentence: “He mumbled an apology and left the room.”
What part of speech is “mumble”?
“Mumble” is a verb.
Where does the word “mumble” come from?
The word “mumble” comes from Middle English. From Middle English momelen, related to "mum" (silent); similar words exist in German and Dutch for indistinct chewing or muttering.
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