whisper

[ˈ(h)wɪspə]

[ˈ(h)wɪspɚ]

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whispering - whisper

A whisper is a quiet and soft way of speaking, almost like breathing.

When we talk about whispers, we usually think about having a secret conversation with someone close by. You might be sitting next to a friend in class or at the movies, and you lean over to share some gossip or a funny joke without anyone else hearing. It's not just about being quiet, it's also about being discreet and making sure no one else knows what you're talking about. Sometimes we use the word "whisper" to describe someone who shares information quietly with others, like a rumor or a piece of news that hasn't been made public yet.

How common is "whisper"?

Word whisper is considered uncommon in modern English.
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.

Definitions

noun

The act of speaking in a quiet voice, especially, without vibration of the vocal cords.
(usually in the plural) A rumor.
Example: There are whispers of rebellion all around.
A faint trace or hint (of something).
Example: The soup had just a whisper of basil.
A low rustling sound, like that of the wind in leaves.
A private message to an individual in a chat room.

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verb

To speak softly, or under the breath, so as to be heard only by one near at hand; to utter words without sonant breath; to talk without that vibration in the larynx which gives sonorous, or vocal, sound.
To mention privately and confidentially, or in a whisper.
To make a low, sibilant sound.
To speak with suspicion or timorous caution; to converse in whispers, as in secret plotting.
To address in a whisper, or low voice.
To prompt secretly or cautiously; to inform privately.

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Real examples of "whispering" in context

Bryan Cranston Fully Commits While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones

Interview

no whispering, no utterance of any kind. Completely shut down the vocal cords.

4:15