What does muse mean?
Muse has two principal meanings. As a verb, it means to think about something carefully, usually without reaching a firm decision: “He mused over whether to accept the offer.” It often conveys a thoughtful, slightly distant, or uncertain state of mind. As a noun, a muse is someone or something that inspires creative work, especially a writer, artist, or musician. This use is often personal or literary, as in “the poet's muse,” though a place, object, or experience can also serve as a muse. The word carries associations with creativity, contemplation, and artistic devotion. It is also connected, through the classical tradition, to the nine Muses, the Greek goddesses who presided over poetry, music, drama, and other arts. Today, the verb is generally more common in everyday use, while the noun often appears in artistic, biographical, or figurative contexts.
A person, place, or thing that inspires creative work; also the source or embodiment of artistic inspiration.
"Her grandmother became her greatest muse."
This noun is most often used in artistic or figurative contexts. The singular proper noun Muse denotes one of the nine Greek Muses.
To ponder or consider something at length, especially with curiosity or uncertainty.
"He paused to muse over the consequences of his decision."
Common constructions include muse over, muse on, and muse about. The verb often implies reflective uncertainty rather than a definite conclusion.
The regular plural is used when referring to multiple people or sources of inspiration.
"Painters often portray their muses as idealized figures."
The nine Muses were Greek goddesses associated with poetry, music, and the other arts—and our word for artistic inspiration still bears their name.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does muse come from?
The English noun comes through Latin from Greek Mousa, the name of one of the nine goddesses of the arts and literature. The related verb developed through Middle French muser and Latin musare, both meaning to ponder or reflect. The English noun and verb therefore share a classical artistic and intellectual heritage.
Related word forms
How muse is actually used
As a verb, muse is usually followed by about, on, or over: “muse about the past,” “muse on the problem.” It has a thoughtful, reflective tone and may suggest uncertainty rather than firm conclusion. The related proper noun Muse refers to one of the nine Greek Muses; the plural Muses refers to all nine.
Easily confused with muse
A muse inspires or gives rise to creative thought, whereas to amuse is to entertain someone or make them laugh.