Definition

To speak in a quiet and unclear way, making it hard for others to understand what is being said.

Example

He tends to mumble when he is nervous, so it's difficult to hear him clearly.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear Mark mumble during his speech yesterday?

Yeah, I couldn't really understand what he was saying.

I thought he was just nervous, but it was hard to follow him.

Definitely! He needs to practice speaking more clearly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A quiet and unclear sound made when someone speaks softly or unclearly.

Example

His mumble was so soft that I could barely hear what he said.

Conversation

Did you hear that mumble from the back of the room during the meeting?

Yeah, I thought someone was trying to say something important.

It was so low that I couldn't catch any of it.

Definition

To speak in a quiet and unclear way, making it hard for others to understand what is being said.

Example

He tends to mumble when he is nervous, so it's difficult to hear him clearly.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear him mumble during the presentation?

Yeah, it was hard to understand what he was saying.

I think he was nervous, but he should have spoken clearly.

Root Explanation

Mumble → The word originates from Middle English 'mumblen', which is of uncertain origin but is thought to be imitative of the sound of mumbling. It describes the act of speaking in a low, indistinct manner, often due to uncertainty or shyness.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone speaking softly and indistinctly, like a quiet murmur — that's what mumble means.

Visually Confused Words