murmullo
“murmullo” means “murmur” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
murmur
Also: whisper, buzz
📝 In Action
Se oía un murmullo constante en la biblioteca.
A2A constant murmur could be heard in the library.
El murmullo de la gente me impedía escuchar la música.
B1The murmur of the people prevented me from hearing the music.
Un murmullo de sorpresa recorrió la habitación cuando entró el actor.
B2A murmur of surprise went through the room when the actor entered.
babbling
Also: rustle, purr
📝 In Action
Dormimos junto al murmullo del río.
A2We slept next to the babbling of the river.
El murmullo de las hojas en el otoño es muy relajante.
B1The rustle of the leaves in autumn is very relaxing.
El murmullo del viento entre los pinos me da paz.
B2The murmur of the wind among the pines gives me peace.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: murmullo
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is a 'murmullo'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'murmur', which was a word created to imitate the actual sound of low voices or humming.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'murmullo' the same as 'susurro'?
Not exactly. A 'susurro' is a deliberate whisper, often between two people. A 'murmullo' is usually a background sound that is indistinct, like many people talking at once or the wind in the trees.
Can 'murmullo' be used for a single person?
Usually, no. If one person is speaking softly, we call it a 'susurro'. 'Murmullo' typically describes the collective sound of a group or a continuous natural sound.
Does 'murmullo' always mean something positive?
Not always. While it often describes relaxing nature sounds, a 'murmullo de desaprobación' (murmur of disapproval) can describe a negative reaction from a crowd.