hush

UK: hʌʃ | US: hʌʃ

Definition

  1. v. to make or become quiet or silent

  2. n. a state of silence or calm

  3. interj. used to urge silence

Structure

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Etymology

The word "hush" is an example of onomatopoeia, imitating the sound used to quiet someone (e.g., "shh"). It emerged in the mid-16th century as a natural exclamation to demand silence, later evolving into a verb and noun. Its simplicity and direct auditory association make it a universal tool for urging quietness.

Examples

  1. She whispered, "Hush!" to the noisy children.

  2. The mother hushed her baby with a lullaby.

  3. A sudden hush fell over the crowd.

  4. "Hush now," he said, "or they’ll hear us."

  5. The wind hushed as the storm passed.