First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1whisper
verb whis·per \ˈhwis-pər, ˈwis-\
: to speak very softly or quietly
: to produce a quiet sound
whis·peredwhis·per·ing \-p(ə-)riŋ\
Full Definition of WHISPER
intransitive verb
1
: to speak softly with little or no vibration of the vocal cords especially to avoid being overheard
2
: to make a sibilant sound that resembles whispering
transitive verb
1
: to address in a whisper
2
: to utter or communicate in or as if in a whisper
See whisper defined for English-language learners
See whisper defined for kids
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Origin of WHISPER
Middle English, from Old English hwisperian; akin to Old High German hwispalōn to whisper, Old Norse hvīsla — more at whistle
Related to WHISPER
- Synonyms
- bruit (about), circulate, noise (about or out), rumor
2whisper
noun
: a very soft and quiet way of speaking
: a soft and quiet sound
: a very small amount of something
Full Definition of WHISPER
1
: something communicated by or as if by whispering; especially : rumor <whispers of scandal>
2
a : an act or instance of whispering; especially : speech without vibration of the vocal cords b : a sibilant sound that resembles whispered speech
See whisper defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of WHISPER
1595
WHISPER Defined for Kids
1whisper
verb whis·per \ˈhwi-spər, ˈwi-\
whis·peredwhis·per·ing
Definition of WHISPER for Kids
1
: to speak softly and quietly
2
: to tell by speaking softly and quietly <“I would miss you, Nick,” I whispered. “I would.” — Patricia MacLachlan, Sarah, Plain and Tall>
3
: to make a low rustling sound <The wind whispered in the trees.>
2whisper
noun
Definition of WHISPER for Kids
1
: a soft quiet way of speaking that can be heard only by people who are near
2
: the act of speaking softly and quietly
3
: something said softly and quietly
4
: 1hint 2 <a whisper of smoke>
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