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Mumbled - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Mumbled means to speak quietly and unclearly, often with the words running together, making it hard to understand. It usually suggests shyness, hesitation, or lack of confidence.

mumbled

/ˈmʌmbəld/ /ˈmʌmbəld/

Definition:

Spoke quietly and indistinctly, often due to shyness or reluctance.

Synonyms:

muttered, murmured, whispered, grumbled

Part of Speech:

verb, adjective

Antonyms:

enunciated, proclaimed

Common Collocations:

mumbled apology, mumbled words, mumbled response, mumbled excuse

Derivatives:

mumbler, mumblingly

Usage Tips:

Use "mumbled" to describe unclear speech; often implies low volume and lack of confidence.

Common Phrases:

mumbled under one's breath, mumbled incoherently, mumbled something unintelligible

Etymology:

Derived from Middle English "mumlen," imitative of low, indistinct sounds.

Examples:

  • 1. She mumbled her answer during the test.
  • 2. He mumbled an apology and looked away.
  • 3. The tired child mumbled a goodnight before falling asleep.
  • 4. She mumbled something under her breath in frustration.

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