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hum

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /hʌm/

KK: /hʌm/

interjection
Definition

A sound made by humming, often used to show uncertainty or to fill a pause in conversation.


Example

"Hum, I'm not sure if that's the right answer," she said thoughtfully.


Conversation
Sloth A
Hey, did you hear about the party this weekend?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard, but I'm not sure if I should go.
Sloth A
Hmm, why not? It could be fun!
Sloth B
I guess I just feel a bit unsure about it, hum.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hmm
uh
er
Antonyms
no
yes
ah
intransitive verb
Definition

To make a continuous low sound, like a bee or a person producing a tune without speaking.


Example

She likes to hum her favorite song while she works.


Tense Forms

Past: hummed

Past Participle: hummed


Conversation
Sloth A
Do you hear that? The café seems to hum with energy today.
Sloth B
Yeah, it’s really lively! I love this atmosphere.
Sloth A
It makes me want to stay here and hum along with the music.
Sloth B
noun
Definition

A low, continuous sound made by someone humming or a similar sound.


Example

The hum of the refrigerator was the only noise in the quiet room.


Conversation
Sloth A
I love the hum of the city in the morning.
Sloth B
Yeah, it really gives off a lively vibe, doesn't it?
Sloth A
Totally! It's like the hum is a part of the atmosphere.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To produce a low, continuous sound, often by singing a tune without using words.


Example

She began to hum her favorite song while cooking dinner.


Tense Forms

Past: hummed

Past Participle: hummed


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you noticed how I sometimes hum while I work?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it helps you concentrate better.
Sloth A
Exactly! I find it easier to focus when I hum a little tune in my head.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

The word 'hum' originates from Latin 'humus' (meaning ground or earth). It refers to the sound made by a person or a low continuous sound, often associated with the earth or a grounded presence.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for ground ('humus') to remember that 'hum' relates to a low, earthy sound.

Visually Confused Words
chum
ahum
um
hu
Is this page helpful?
Exactly! It’s the perfect background for getting some work done.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
buzz
drone
murmur
Antonyms
silence
quiet
stillness
Exactly, it makes me feel energized for the day ahead.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
buzz
drone
murmur
Antonyms
silence
quiet
stillness
That's cool! I might try that next time I'm studying.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
buzz
drone
sing
Antonyms
silence
mumble
whisper