whisper
UK: ˈwɪspə | US: ˈwɪspər
n. a soft or confidential tone of voice; a rumor or piece of gossip
v.i. to speak very softly, using one’s breath rather than vocal cords
v.t. to say something in a whisper
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whisper = whisp<to make a light sound> + er<verb-forming suffix>
- whisp: Traced to Old English hwisprian, meaning "to murmur or speak softly," likely imitative of the sound of breathy speech.
- er: A common English suffix forming verbs or agent nouns.
Etymology Origin:
"Whisper" originates from the Old English hwisprian, an onomatopoeic term mimicking the sound of hushed speech. The word’s evolution retained its core association with breathy, quiet communication, reinforced by the Proto-Germanic root hwis-, linked to light, rustling sounds (e.g., whistle). The -er suffix solidifies its verbal function. The word’s logic mirrors the auditory experience of secrecy—sound without full vocalization.
She leaned close to whisper the secret in his ear.
The wind made the leaves whisper in the dark.
Gossip spread through the office in hushed whispers.
"Don’t be afraid," he whispered reassuringly.
The children whispered excitedly during the movie.