What does lull mean?
A lull is a short period in which activity, conversation, noise, or anxiety decreases. As a noun, it describes an interruption or pause, such as a lull in trade, a lull in the proceedings, or a lull in someone's anxiety. As a verb, “to lull” means to soothe a person, especially a child, into sleep, as in a song that lulls a baby. It can also mean to make something temporarily less intense or prominent: a lull in demand, a lull in hostilities, or fears that are lulled by reassuring words. The word is useful because it captures both temporary calm and the idea that normal activity may resume. It is used in British and American English, although noun uses are particularly frequent in journalism and formal discussion.
A temporary period of quiet, calm, or reduced activity.
"After several hours of negotiation, there was a lull in the talks."
Often used figuratively for a pause in business, politics, weather, or conversation.
To soothe or calm someone, especially to sleep, or to make activity, anxiety, or pain temporarily less intense.
"The gentle melody helped lull the infant to sleep."
The transitive form is standard; “lull someone to sleep” and figurative uses such as “lull fears” are common.
Used for separate temporary pauses or periods of reduced activity.
"The series was interrupted by several lulls in audience attention."
A lull is more than a quiet moment: it is a temporary suspension of noise, movement, or anxiety that makes a return to activity feel sharper.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lull come from?
The English word “lull” comes through Old English from a Germanic root associated with soothing or lulling to sleep. The verb was already used in Old English for quieting or comforting someone, and the related noun developed later for a period of reduced activity or noise. Cognates exist in other Germanic languages, including German “lullen,” Dutch “lullen,” and Old Norse or Swedish “lulla,” reflecting a shared Germanic history. The familiar word “lullaby” also preserves the same soothing idea.
Related word forms
How lull is actually used
The noun is common in journalism and formal writing for a temporary pause in activity or conversation. The verb is often used with people, fears, anxiety, or pain, and has a somewhat calming, formal tone when used figuratively.