VocabDictionary

muffle

/ˈmʌf.əl/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To wrap or cover up in order to deaden or suppress the sound of something.

Example Sentences:
  • She tried to muffle her cough by burying her face in a pillow.
  • Heavy snowfall tended to muffle the city's usual traffic noises.
2.verb

To wrap up warmly for protection against the cold.

Example Sentences:
  • He muffled himself in a thick woolen scarf before stepping out into the blizzard.
3.noun

A pad or covering used to deaden a sound.

Example Sentences:
  • The drumsticks were fitted with muffles for quiet practice sessions.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “muffle”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Middle English (in the sense 'wrap up warmly'): from Old French moufle 'mitten, thick glove', of unknown origin. The sense shifted from 'wrap up' to 'wrap in order to deaden sound' in the 16th century.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of wrapping yourself in a heavy MUFFler to keep warm and quiet your voice.

Frequently Asked Questions About “muffle

1. What is the meaning of “muffle” in English?

In English, muffle (verb) is defined as: “To wrap or cover up in order to deaden or suppress the sound of something.”.

2. How do you use “muffle” in a sentence?

She tried to muffle her cough by burying her face in a pillow.

3. What are English synonyms of “muffle”?

Common synonyms include:dampen,deadening,stifle,mute,attenuate

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “muffle”?

Middle English (in the sense 'wrap up warmly'): from Old French moufle 'mitten, thick glove', of unknown origin. The sense shifted from 'wrap up' to 'wrap in order to deaden sound' in the 16th century.

muffle Meaning in English - English Definition & Pronunciation | Vocab Dictionary | Vocab Dictionary