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hum
[huhm]
verb (used without object)
to make a low, continuous, droning sound.
to give forth an indistinct sound of mingled voices or noises.
to utter an indistinct sound in hesitation, embarrassment, dissatisfaction, etc.; hem.
to sing with closed lips, without articulating words.
to be in a state of busy activity.
The household hummed in preparation for the wedding.
Synonyms: ,British Slang.to have a bad odor, as of stale perspiration.
verb (used with object)
to sound, sing, or utter by humming.
to hum a tune.
to bring, put, etc., by humming.
to hum a child to sleep.
noun
the act or sound of humming; an inarticulate or indistinct murmur; hem.
Audio.an unwanted low-frequency sound caused by power-line frequencies in any audio component.
interjection
(an inarticulate sound uttered in contemplation, hesitation, dissatisfaction, doubt, etc.)
hum
/ ʌ /
verb
(intr) to make a low continuous vibrating sound like that of a prolonged m
(intr) (of a person) to sing with the lips closed
(intr) to utter an indistinct sound, as in hesitation; hem
informal(intr) to be in a state of feverish activity
slang(intr) to smell unpleasant
slang(intr) to scrounge
See hem 2
noun
a low continuous murmuring sound
electronics an undesired low-frequency noise in the output of an amplifier or receiver, esp one caused by the power supply
slanga scrounger; cadger
slangan unpleasant odour
interjection
an indistinct sound of hesitation, embarrassment, etc; hem
Other Word Forms
- underhum noun
- ˈܳ noun
Word History and Origins
Word History and Origins
Origin of hum1
Example Sentences
The general hum of the canteen was pierced by the sound of approaching jet engines - and then the room exploded.
The kitchen is humming with activity, and behind the bar a member of staff pours cold beer from a tap into a glass.
On Monday, there was a quiet hum of traffic passing on Colorado Boulevard outside the AC Hotel.
In a world where the grocery store produce section hums along with seasonless consistency, tomato season offers the rare thrill of noticing.
The studio smelled faintly of wet earth and glaze, and the rhythmic hum of spinning wheels made it feel almost meditative.
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