Pronunciation

/ˈmʌtər/

Definitions

• Verb (v): To speak softly or indistinctly, often under one’s breath or with the lips barely moving, so that the words are difficult to hear clearly. Example: “She muttered her complaints to herself as she cleaned up the mess.”
• Noun (n): The act of muttering, or a low, indistinct sound made by someone speaking in this way. Example: “The constant mutter of discontent from the back row disrupted the lecture.”

Phrases

• “Mutter to oneself”: To speak quietly or under one’s breath, usually when thinking aloud or expressing annoyance. Example: “He was muttering to himself about the unfairness of it all.”
• “Mutter curses/swears”: To speak derogatory or offensive words in a low voice. Example: “Angry at the situation, he began to mutter curses under his breath.”

Example Sentences

• Verb: “He muttered a string of expletives when he realized he’d forgotten his keys.”
• Noun: “His angry mutter could be heard even across the noisy room.”

Synonyms

• Murmur
• Whisper
• Mumble
• Grumble
• Underbreath (for the act of muttering)
• Low murmur
• Indistinct whisper