shh
UK: ʃː | US: ʃː
Definition
interj. a sound used to urge silence
Structure
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Etymology
"Shh" is an onomatopoeic interjection directly imitating the sound of whispering or hushing. Unlike words with clear morphemes, it belongs to a category of vocal gestures that evolved naturally across languages to command quietness. Its spelling reflects prolonged airflow through pursed lips (represented by repeated "h"s), a universal human sound symbolizing silence.
Examples
"Shh! The baby is sleeping."
She put a finger to her lips and whispered, "Shh."
The librarian gave a sharp "shh" to the noisy students.
"Shh, don’t spoil the movie ending!"
A chorus of "shh" erupted when the phone rang during the concert.