What does rumbling mean?
A rumbling is a low, continuous sound, such as the distant noise of thunder, the movement of heavy machinery, or the sound of a vehicle traveling over a rough road. The word also evokes a rumbling stomach, using the physical sensation of hunger to describe a hollow or unsettled feeling in the abdomen. In political and social contexts, plural rumblings refer to signs of growing dissatisfaction or unrest that have not yet developed into open complaint. As an adjective, rumbling can describe either the sound itself or a sensation produced by it. As a verb, it means to make such a sound, while also meaning to speak in a low, gruff, or indistinct voice. The word is familiar in British and American English and is especially effective when a deep, continuous noise or an underlying tension is being emphasized.
A low continuous sound, or the sensation of such a sound in the body.
"The rumbling of the approaching train grew steadily louder."
In the sense of widespread dissatisfaction, the usual form is plural: rumblings.
Making or characterized by a low continuous sound.
"He complained of a rumbling pain in his stomach."
The phrase rumbling stomach is especially common when describing hunger.
To make a low continuous sound, or to speak in a low, gruff voice.
"The old engine was rumbling as it climbed the hill."
This is the present participle of rumble and is commonly used in continuous narration.
Plural rumblings commonly denotes signs of growing dissatisfaction or unrest within a group.
"The rumblings of discontent eventually led to a formal protest."
A rumbling stomach has become a familiar signal that the body is hungry rather than merely uneasy.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rumbling come from?
Rumbling is formed from the Middle English verb rumblen, which developed into the modern verb rumble and its inflectional form rumbling. The origin of the older verb is historically uncertain, although it is often connected with Dutch rumbelen; the modern English -ing form follows the ordinary English pattern of a present participle and gerund.
Related word forms
How rumbling is actually used
When used for public dissatisfaction, the word is usually plural: rumblings. In the sense of a low sound, it can be countable or uncountable. The verb form is common in continuous narration and may sound somewhat literary or figurative when applied to speech.
Easily confused with rumbling
A rumbling is a low, resonant continuous sound, whereas mumbling is an indistinct or quiet form of speech.