Hum Definition: Low Continuous Sound with Examples

Meaning 1：low continuous sound (hum)

hum 🔊

/hʌm/

A low, continuous sound, like the noise from a fridge or a busy room.

Refrigerator emitting low continuous hum sound in kitchen

low continuous sound 🔊

➕

/loʊ kənˈtɪn.ju.əs saʊnd/

A steady, low-pitched sound that continues for a period of time, often produced by machines, insects, or a crowd of people.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Onomatopoeic origin; imitates the low continuous sound.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of a bee's buzz: 'hmm, hum'—the sound keeps going without pause.

📖 Example

The library was so quiet that you could hear the gentle hum of the air conditioner. 🔊 The library was so quiet that you could hear the gentle hum of the air conditioner.

🔗 Collocations

hum of the engine – The low continuous sound made by a running engine

background hum – A constant low sound that forms the ambient noise in an environment

constant hum – A steady, unchanging low sound that persists over time

🔄 Synonyms

buzz (n.) – A low continuous vibrating sound, often associated with bees or electrical devices

drone (n.) – A monotonous low continuous sound, typically from a machine or engine

murmur (n.) – A soft, indistinct, continuous sound, like the sound of a crowd or a gentle stream

🚫 Antonyms

silence (n.) – Complete absence of sound

quiet (n.) – The state of being free from noise or disturbance

🌱 Derivatives

humming (adj.) – Making a low continuous sound

hummer (n.) – Something that hums, such as a hummingbird or a machine

📖 Cultural Story

Originating as an onomatopoeic word in Middle English, 'hum' mimics the sustained buzzing sound. It has been used since the 14th century to describe the noise of bees, machines, and crowds.