nounverb

le murmure

murmur · whisper

Definition & meaning

Murmure is a masculine French noun meaning a murmur, whisper, or soft, low sound. It can describe a quiet human voice, a subdued noise, or a gentle continuous sound such as flowing water or rustling leaves.

It can also be a form of the verb murmurer: “to murmur” or “to whisper.” Depending on context, murmure can mean “he/she/it murmurs,” or serve as a command meaning “murmur!” It is also used in certain subjunctive constructions.

Grammar & Word origin

As a noun, murmure is masculine: un murmure. Its plural is murmures.

As a verb form, it comes from murmurer , a regular -er verb. The same spelling can represent the present tense for il, elle, or on, the imperative form, or the present subjunctive for several subjects.

The noun and verb are related to Latin murmur, meaning a low, indistinct sound.

Synonyms & antonyms

chuchotement — “whispering” or “a whisper.” It usually suggests speaking very quietly to someone, whereas murmure can also describe nonhuman sounds.
bruissement — “rustling” or a soft rustle. It is typically used for light, continuous sounds, especially from nature or objects.
grondement — “rumbling” or “growling.” It is generally deeper and louder than murmure.
cri — “shout” or “cry.” This can contrast with murmure because it is loud, though it is not a strict antonym.
hurlement — “howl” or “scream.” It describes a much louder, more forceful sound.