mutter
MUT-er
/ˈmʌtər/
To speak in a low, grumbling, or barely audible voice, often expressing dissatisfaction or anger.
Carries a strong connotation of complaint, irritation, or speaking to oneself in annoyance.
The story behind the word. Originating in Middle English as 'moteren', this word is imitative of low, grumbling speech with a half-closed mouth, capturing the sound of someone complaining to themselves.
Word relationships
- grumble: Grumble is to complain in a bad-tempered way, whereas mutter specifically emphasizes the low, quiet volume of the complaint.
- exclaim: Exclaim is to cry out suddenly and loudly, especially in surprise, anger, or excitement.
Commonly confused with
- mumble: Mumble is quiet due to poor articulation, while mutter is quiet because the speaker is grumbling or speaking to themselves.
Word family
- mutterer (noun): A person who mutters or grumbles.
Collocations
- mutter under one's breath
- mutter angrily
- dark mutterings
Example sentences
- "I heard him mutter some complaints about the long lines, but he didn't say anything directly to the cashier." Expressing quiet frustration in a public place.
Memory hook
Imagine a mutterer muttering 'mutter, mutter' under their breath in anger. Mutter is what you do when you are mad but can't shout.
When not to use
Do not use when the quiet speech is affectionate, gentle, or intended to be comforting.
Fun facts
- Muttering was once legally associated with witchcraft and casting spells in quiet, rhythmic incantations.
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