hum
A hum is a low, vibrating sound that's often hard to put into words. It's like the sound your stomach makes when it's growling with hunger.
When we use the word "hum" in everyday conversation, it usually means making this kind of sound. For example, if you have a car with a wonky engine, it might make a weird hum as it moves along the road. Or, if you're standing near an old house and there's a strange noise coming from inside, that could be just a creaky floorboard or perhaps a mysterious hum. Some electronic devices like computers or phones also tend to hum when they're working hard. We might use this word when we want to describe a gentle rumble or murmur that's often background noise in our lives.
How common is "hum"?
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.
interjection
Indicating thinking or pondering.
Example: Hmm... I just can't decide between the two.
noun
A hummed tune, i.e. created orally with lips closed.
verb
To make a sound from the vocal chords without pronouncing any real words, with one's lips closed.
Example: We are humming happily along with the music.
interjection
An expression used to show contentment for something
Example: Mmm, this is a tasty pie!
interjection
Expression of hesitation, uncertainty or space filler in conversation. See uh.
Example: Let’s see... um... how about this?
Real examples of "humming" in context
