Word Origin & History
murmurlate 14c., "expression of discontent by grumbling," from O.Fr. murmure (12c.), noun of action from murmurer, from L. murmurare, from murmur (n.) "a hum, muttering, rushing," probably from a PIE reduplicative base *mor-mor, of imitative origin (cf. Skt. murmurah "crackling fire," Gk. mormyrein "to roar,
EXPANDboil," Lith. murmlenti "to murmur"). Meaning "softly spoken words" is from 1670s. The verb is first attested late 14c. Related: Murmured; murmuring.
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