humming
word · lemma: hum
/ˈhəmɪŋ/
HUH-ming
/hˈʌmɪŋ/
HUH-ming
Definition
Making a low, continuous sound, like a person singing a tune softly without words, or like the soft noise made by bees or machines.
Usage & Nuances
Can describe singing gently without words or a soft, consistent background noise (like a fridge or bees). Often appears as 'humming a tune' or 'the humming of'. Don't confuse with 'singing' (with words) or 'buzzing' (louder, sharper sound).
Spanish: tarareando - zumbidoPortuguese (BR): zumbido - cantarolandoPortuguese (PT): zumbido - cantarolandoChinese (Simplified): 哼唱 - 嗡嗡聲Chinese (Traditional): 哼唱 - 嗡嗡聲Hindi: गुनगुनानाArabic: الدمدمة - طنينBengali: হাঁটা-হাঁটা শব্দ - গুনগুন (গান)Russian: жужжание - напевание (без слов)Japanese: ハミング - 低い連続音Vietnamese: ngân nga - kêu vo ve nhẹKorean: 흥얼거림 - 윙윙거림Turkish: mırıldanma - uğultuUrdu: ہمہمہ - گنگناناIndonesian: bersenandung - berdengung
Example Sentences
She is humming her favorite song.
basic
The fridge is humming in the kitchen.
basic
I heard bees humming outside the window.
basic
He walked down the street, humming happily to himself.
natural
There was a soft humming in the background of the recording.
natural
I find humming while working helps me concentrate.
natural