VocabDictionary

whisper

/หˆwษชspษ™r/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To speak very softly using one's breath rather than one's throat, especially for the sake of privacy.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œShe leaned over to whisper a secret in his ear.โ€
  • โ€œThe students whispered among themselves during the lecture.โ€
2.noun

A soft or confidential tone of voice; a rumor or piece of gossip.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œHe spoke in a harsh whisper so as not to wake the baby.โ€
  • โ€œThere is a whisper of scandal surrounding the new politician.โ€
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for โ€œwhisperโ€.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old English 'hwisprian', of Germanic origin. It is imitative of the sound made when speaking softly, sharing roots with the Old Norse 'hviskra'. The 'wh-' spelling reflects the breathy, aspirated quality of the sound.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of the sound of wind blowing through trees: 'wh-wh-wh'โ€”it sounds like a soft whisper.

Frequently Asked Questions About โ€œwhisperโ€

1. What is the meaning of โ€œwhisperโ€ in English?

In English, whisper (verb) is defined as: โ€œTo speak very softly using one's breath rather than one's throat, especially for the sake of privacy.โ€.

2. How do you use โ€œwhisperโ€ in a sentence?

โ€œShe leaned over to whisper a secret in his ear.โ€

3. What are English synonyms of โ€œwhisperโ€?

Common synonyms include:murmur,mutter,breathe,sotto voce

4. What is the etymology and word origin of โ€œwhisperโ€?

Derived from the Old English 'hwisprian', of Germanic origin. It is imitative of the sound made when speaking softly, sharing roots with the Old Norse 'hviskra'. The 'wh-' spelling reflects the breathy, aspirated quality of the sound.