whispered

UK: ˈwɪspəd | US: ˈwɪspərd

Definition

  1. v. (past tense and past participle of whisper)

    1. To speak very softly or quietly, using one’s breath rather than vocal cords.
    1. To communicate secretly or privately.

  4. adj.

    1. Spoken in a whisper; faint or hushed.
Structure
whisper <to speak softly>ed <past tense suffix>
Etymology

whispered = whisper<to speak softly> + ed<past tense suffix>

  • whisper: Derived from Old English hwisprian, meaning "to murmur or speak softly," likely imitative of the sound of whispering.
  • ed: A common English suffix indicating past tense or past participle.

Etymology Origin:
The word whisper originates from an onomatopoeic Old English verb hwisprian, mimicking the sound of breathy, quiet speech. Over time, it evolved into Middle English whisperen and later modern whisper. The addition of -ed marks it as a past action, retaining its core meaning of soft or secretive speech.

Examples

  1. She whispered the secret into his ear.

  2. The leaves whispered in the wind.

  3. He whispered a prayer before the exam.

  4. The audience whispered excitedly during the performance.

  5. "Don't tell anyone," she whispered, glancing around nervously.