Whisper

Definition

Whisper is a verb meaning to speak very softly, often for secrecy or confidentiality. As a noun, it refers to the sound of soft speech or a faint, low sound.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɪs.pɚ/
• Respelling: WIS-per

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɪs.pə/
• Respelling: WIS-puh

Etymology

The word "whisper" originates from Old English "hwisprian," meaning "to speak softly," derived from Proto-Germanic "*hwisprōną," related to "*hwis-" (to hiss or murmur). It has cognates in Old High German "hwisprōn" and Middle Dutch "wisperen."

Derivatives

• Whisperer (noun)
• Whispery (adjective)
• Whisperingly (adverb)
• Whisperlike (adjective)
• Whisperless (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Murmur
• Susurration
• Breathe

Antonyms

• Shout
• Yell
• Cry

Usage

The verb "whisper" is used to describe soft or secretive speech, as in "He leaned in to whisper a secret." As a noun, it can describe a sound, as in "She heard a whisper in the wind."

Related Terms

• Murmur: A soft, indistinct sound or speech.
• Hiss: A sibilant sound, often softer than a whisper.
• Soft-spoken: Speaking in a gentle or quiet voice.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To speak softly or in a low voice: Often used to avoid being overheard.
  • Example: "He whispered to her during the meeting."
• To make a soft, rustling sound: Refers to faint sounds similar to soft speech.
  • Example: "The leaves whispered in the breeze."

Noun

• The sound of soft or quiet speech: Refers to speech that is subdued and gentle.
  • Example: "Her whisper was barely audible."
• A faint or low sound: Refers to subtle noises, often from nature or background sounds.
  • Example: "There was a whisper of wind through the trees."