hubbub
UK: ˈhʌbʌb | US: ˈhʌbʌb
n. a loud, confused noise, especially of voices
n. a state of commotion or disorder
The word "hubbub" originated in the mid-16th century, likely as an onomatopoeic reduplication mimicking the sound of chaotic noise or shouting. The repeated syllables "hub" and "bub" imitate the overlapping voices in a crowd, reflecting its meaning of loud confusion. It may also have Irish Gaelic roots, influenced by the phrase "hoo boo" (a cry of alarm or protest). Over time, it evolved to describe any tumultuous uproar or commotion.
The hubbub of the marketplace made it hard to hear.
A sudden hubbub erupted when the celebrity entered the room.
The teacher struggled to quiet the hubbub of excited students.
Despite the hubbub outside, she managed to focus on her work.
The political debate descended into a hubbub of shouting and interruptions.