mutter

Reading level: medium

Estimated CEFR level: B1 — Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a low continuous indistinct sound; often accompanied by movement of the lips without the production of articulate speech
  2. noun a complaint uttered in a low and indistinct tone
  3. verb talk indistinctly; usually in a low voice

Etymology

From Middle English muteren, moteren, of imitative origin. Compare Low German mustern, musseln (“to whisper”), German muttern (“to mutter; whisper”), Old Norse muðla (“to murmur”). Compare also Latin muttīre, mutīre.

In classic literature

Synonyms

muttering, murmur, murmuring, murmuration, mussitation

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