Basic Details
Word: Murmur
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To speak very softly or quietly so that it is difficult to hear.
Synonyms: Whispers, mutters, mumble
Antonyms: Shout, yell, declare
Idioms and Phrases
- Softly spoken: Describing someone who speaks in a quiet or gentle manner. Example: "Her softly spoken words calmed everyone in the room."
- Murmur like a brook: Refers to something that flows subtly and gently, like a peaceful stream. Example: "The leaves rustled in the wind, murmuring like a brook."
Usage Examples
Example 1: I heard her murmur a secret to her friend during lunch.
Example 2: The audience began to murmur in confusion when the speaker was late.
Example 3: He gave a murmur of approval when he tasted the delicious cake.
Fun Fact
The word "murmur" comes from Latin "murmurare," which means "to mutter" and has been in use since the 14th century, reflecting its long history of describing soft speech.
Famous Quote
"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched but must be felt with the heart." - Helen Keller. This reflects the soft, quiet nature of feelings, much like a murmur.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "murmur" mean?
a) To shout loudly
b) To speak softly
c) To sing
d) To laugh
Answer: b) To speak softly
2. Which of these is a synonym of "murmur"?
a) Yell
b) Whispers
c) Scream
d) Shout
Answer: b) Whispers
3. Which of these is an antonym of "murmur"?
a) Whisper
b) Declare
c) Mumble
d) Speak softly
Answer: b) Declare
4. Which sentence uses "murmur" correctly?
a) She murmur loudly at the concert.
b) He decided to murmur his answer to avoid being heard.
c) The crowd began to murmur when they won.
d) He likes to murmur his high notes.
Answer: b) He decided to murmur his answer to avoid being heard.
5. Which idiom means to speak softly?
a) Softly spoken
b) Loud as a lion
c) Speak one's mind
d) Make a scene
Answer: a) Softly spoken
