What does murmurously mean?
Murmurously describes the way someone speaks when their voice is low, soft, and not fully clear. The word conveys both the physical quality of the sound and a sense that the words are tentative, intimate, or intended not to attract attention. A person might reply murmurously, speak murmurously, or answer under their breath in this manner. It is especially useful when describing speech that remains audible but is deliberately subdued, as in a private conversation, a fearful confession, or an attempt to avoid disturbing others. The adverb is less frequent in ordinary conversation than “quietly” or “softly,” and its literary or descriptive force makes it especially appropriate for narrative and careful prose.
adverbIn a low, soft, indistinct voice, as if speaking without expecting to be fully heard.
- In a low, soft, indistinct voice.
"She answered murmurously, as though she were afraid someone might overhear her."
"He spoke murmurously while the room was still quiet."
"The witness gave her account murmurously, repeating the important details more clearly."
Murmurously is the sound of words meant to be heard, but not necessarily understood.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does murmurously come from?
The word belongs to the English family of “murmur,” which entered Middle English as a form of Old French “murmurer.” That French word came from Latin “murmurare,” an imitative verb for producing a low, continuous sound. The adverb “murmurously” was formed later by adding the suffix “-ously” to “murmur,” and related forms include “murmurous” and “murmuration.”
Related word forms
How murmurously is actually used
This adverb is more literary and less common in everyday speech than phrases such as “in a low voice” or “quietly.” It often suggests speech that is soft, hesitant, or deliberately hard for others to hear.