murmur
UK: ˈmɜː.mər | US: ˈmɜːr.mɚ
n. a low, continuous, indistinct sound, often of voices
n. a subdued or private expression of discontent
v.i. to make a low, continuous sound
v.i. to complain in a quiet or indirect way
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Derived from Latin murmur (a humming, muttering), which itself likely originated as an onomatopoeia mimicking the sound of flowing water, rustling leaves, or hushed voices. The word has retained its core meaning of a soft, indistinct sound across centuries, evolving to include metaphorical uses like quiet complaints. Its repetitive "mur-mur" structure reinforces the auditory imitation.
The murmur of the stream was soothing.
She heard a murmur of conversation from the next room.
The crowd began to murmur in disapproval.
He murmured an apology under his breath.
There were murmurs of rebellion among the staff.