What does mull mean?
To mull is to think about a matter carefully, usually turning it over in your mind before reaching a decision. The expression "mull over" is the most familiar form, as in mulling over a proposal, an offer, or a difficult question. Mull can also mean to heat wine, cider, or another drink with spices, in which case it is often used attributively, as in mulled wine. In the thinking sense, the word suggests deliberate, prolonged consideration rather than a quick reaction. It is common in British and American English, though the related phrase may sound slightly informal in formal writing. The word is useful because it captures the mental process of examining an issue from different angles before acting.
To think about something carefully and at length, especially before making a decision.
"He took a few minutes to mull over the offer."
Commonly used in the phrase "mull over."
To heat a drink, especially wine or cider, with spices and usually fruit.
"They served mulled cider on the cold evening."
Most often encountered in the forms "mulled wine" and "mulled cider."
The phrase "mull over" means to turn an idea around in your mind, turning the word into a vivid metaphor of mental stirring.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mull come from?
The verb comes from Middle English, where it was associated with consulting, discussing, or considering a matter. Its modern sense of thinking something over developed from earlier meanings connected with turning something over mentally. The separate culinary sense, referring to heating a drink with spices, developed from the idea of infusing or steeping a liquid and is now particularly familiar in the expression "mulled wine."
Related word forms
How mull is actually used
In its sense of considering something, mull is especially common in the expression "mull over" and is neutral in register. The spelling "mull" should not be confused with "mule" or "mumble."
Easily confused with mull
To mull something is to think about it carefully, whereas to mumble is to speak unclearly or quietly.