Meaning & Definition of word "Whisper"

Whisper

/ˈwɪspər/

noun:

  • 1. A soft or quiet speech.
    • Example: His whisper was barely audible over the noise of the crowd.
  • 2. An utterance made in a very low voice or with little volume.
    • Example: She heard a whisper of encouragement from her friends.
  • 3. A rumor or confidential piece of information.
    • Example: There’s a whisper going around that the company will merge soon.

verb:

  • 1. To speak very softly, using one's breath rather than one's vocal cords.
    • Example: She leaned in to whisper a secret into his ear.
  • 2. To speak softly in a hushed tone, often for the sake of confidentiality.
    • Example: He whispered to her that he had a surprise planned.
  • 3. To say something in a voice so quiet that it is barely audible.
    • Example: The teacher had to whisper to the students to keep them from disturbing the class.

Etymology

Middle English 'whisperen', of uncertain origin; possibly imitative.

Common Phrases and Expressions

whisper sweet nothings:

To speak lovingly or flirtatiously in a quiet voice.

whisper in someone's ear:

To share a secret or private information to someone quietly.

whisper campaign:

A secret or discreet effort to influence opinion through rumors.

Related Words

murmur:

A low or indistinct continuous sound.

buzz:

A low, continuous humming or murmuring sound.

hiss:

To make a sharp sibilant sound.

Slang Meanings of whisper

Meaning: To speak quietly or secretly about something.

Example Sentence: Let's just whisper about it so no one else hears.

Meaning: To share gossip in a hushed manner.

Example Sentence: They were whispering behind her back about the prom.