Hum

/hʌm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A low, continuous sound.

The hum of the air conditioning was soothing in the silent room.

A buzzing sound made by an insect.

The hum of bees filled the air as we approached the garden.

verb

To make a low, continuous sound, typically made by a person with closed lips or an insect.

She began to hum her favorite tune while she worked in the garden.

To be filled with a low, steady sound.

The room hummed with the sound of conversation and laughter.

To sing with a closed mouth.

He hummed a melody to himself as he walked down the street.

Middle English, from Old English 'hyma', imitative of humming sounds.

hum along

To sing or follow a tune by humming.

humming with activity

Indicating a place that is busy or lively.

hum a tune

To sing a melody without words.

buzz

A low, continuous humming sound made by bees or other insects.

murmur

A soft, indistinct sound made by a person or group of people.

drone

A continuous low humming sound, especially produced by a machine.

To be busy or active.

The office was really humming today.

To be intoxicated or slightly high.

After a few drinks, he was feeling pretty hum.