What does muttered mean?
To mutter is to speak quietly and indistinctly, often without fully opening the mouth or moving the lips clearly. The verb can describe speech that is simply too low for others to hear, but it more commonly carries an implication of annoyance, embarrassment, reluctance, or hostility. “He muttered an apology” suggests a brief, subdued statement, while “She muttered that the delay was unacceptable” conveys irritation or resentment. Muttering is especially natural in dialogue and informal narrative because it communicates both the volume and attitude of a speaker. The related noun meaning a low, indistinct remark derives from the same verb, as in expressions such as “a string of mutters.” Although someone may mutter in an effort to avoid being overheard, the word often implies that the speech is tense or deliberately underplayed rather than calm and deliberate.
verbTo speak very quietly or indistinctly, especially with the lips barely moving or in a low, often irritated tone.
- To speak in a low or indistinct voice, often so that the words are difficult to hear.
- To say something quietly while expressing annoyance, reluctance, or displeasure.
"She muttered an apology and looked away."
"He muttered something under his breath as he left the room."
"She shifted uneasily and muttered that she had never wanted the job."
What you say under your breath can still carry farther than you intended.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does muttered come from?
The word derives from Middle English forms of the verb mutter, which was used for speaking in a low or indistinct voice. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, although it belongs to a family of Germanic forms with related meanings in continental European languages. The verbal noun and the agent noun mutterer developed from the same root and preserve its older association with quiet, unclear speech.
Related word forms
How muttered is actually used
The word often suggests that a speaker is angry, embarrassed, resentful, or deliberately speaking quietly. It is common in everyday speech and informal writing, where it can convey irritation more strongly than mere softness of voice.