The word “murmur” is used in a variety of contexts, and its meaning can change depending on how it’s applied. Whether you’re talking about speech, sounds in nature, or medical conditions, “murmur” has several different but related definitions. So, what exactly does “murmur” mean?

1. Definition of Murmur

At its core, a murmur refers to a soft, indistinct sound that is often low in volume and difficult to understand clearly. It can describe anything from hushed voices to natural background sounds, conveying a sense of quiet, continuous noise.

2. Murmur in Everyday Speech

In everyday language, “murmur” typically refers to people speaking quietly, almost in a whisper:

• “She murmured something under her breath.”
• “I could hear a murmur of agreement in the crowd.”

This usage implies that the speech is soft, unclear, or spoken in a way that isn’t meant to be fully overheard.

3. Murmur in Nature

Murmur can also be used to describe soft, gentle sounds in nature, such as the wind or flowing water:

• “The murmur of the stream was soothing.”
• “There was a murmur of leaves rustling in the wind.”

These natural murmurs are typically calm and continuous, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere.

4. Medical Definition: Heart Murmur

In a medical context, a heart murmur is a specific sound heard during a heartbeat. It can indicate the flow of blood through the heart and may be normal or a sign of an underlying condition:

• “The doctor detected a heart murmur during the examination.”

Heart murmurs are often caused by turbulent blood flow, and while some murmurs are harmless, others may require further medical investigation.

5. Figurative Use of Murmur

Murmur can also be used figuratively to describe quiet dissent or unrest. For example:

• “There was a murmur of discontent among the employees.”
• “The news caused a murmur of anxiety throughout the room.”

In these cases, murmur refers to low, subdued expressions of emotion, often signaling underlying tension.

Conclusion: The Many Meanings of Murmur

The word “murmur” can describe a range of low, quiet sounds, whether in speech, nature, or even medical terms. From the murmur of a quiet conversation to the sound of a stream or the detection of a heart murmur, this versatile word captures subtle, continuous noises that often go unnoticed unless you listen closely.