What does muttering mean?
Muttering means speaking in a low, indistinct voice, usually in a way that makes the words difficult to understand. The term often suggests that the speaker is talking to themselves, complaining under their breath, or trying to avoid being overheard, but it can also describe any low, continuous, indistinct sound. In everyday use, muttering frequently carries the implication of irritation, unease, or suppressed dissatisfaction. A person might be muttering a complaint, muttering to themselves while thinking, or simply muttering absent-mindedly. The word is also used for mechanical sounds: a heater or engine can mutter in the background. As a form of the verb mutter, it is common in speech and narrative writing, while as a noun, muttering can refer either to the act of speaking quietly or to a continuous low sound.
To speak in a low, indistinct voice, often so that the words are difficult to hear; also, to complain quietly or continuously.
"She muttered that the room was too cold."
Often used figuratively for quiet complaint or suppressed irritation.
A low, indistinct sound or the act of speaking in a low, barely audible voice.
"The muttering of the crowd grew louder as the doors opened."
The plural form mutterings can refer to audible complaints or low, continuous sounds, as in the mutterings of the audience.
Used for instances of low, indistinct speech or for quiet, continuous complaints.
"There were mutterings of dissatisfaction in the crowd."
A mutter is often the soundtrack of quiet irritation: the words may be barely audible, but the mood is unmistakable.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does muttering come from?
The verb mutter comes from Middle English muteren, probably related to Old French muter, meaning to speak low or grumble, and ultimately connected with mute in the sense of producing little sound. English developed several related forms, including mutter, muttering, and muttered. The word's history reflects the long-standing idea that a person who mutters is making a low, indistinct, and often uneasy sound.
Related word forms
How muttering is actually used
In its literal sense, muttering describes speech that is low and indistinct, often because the speaker does not intend to be heard. Figuratively, it can suggest continuous, barely concealed complaint or irritation. The word is common in both formal and informal English.
Easily confused with muttering
Murmuring is generally a sustained, low sound or indistinct speech, while muttering often suggests words spoken through the nose or in a deliberately low, sometimes agitated manner.