rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryhumLow continuous sound
noun / verb

hum

HUM/hʌm/

To emit a quiet continuous vibrating sound.

He hums a quiet tune, keeping time with one hand.

A relaxed man hums a tune with visibly closed lips, gently marking its rhythm with one hand.
Etymology
humMiddle Englishmake a murmuring sound

Middle English hommen described murmuring to cover embarrassment, and the verb later meant buzzing or droning. Probably imitative in origin, it came to include singing with closed lips.

In context

Dots Singing0:17
Gently close the lips and hum on an Mmmm Have some space between your back molars Feel the resonance or buzzing at the lips
Humming Vocal Warm Up - Improve Pitch and Resonance - Female Voice

More examples

  • The refrigerator hums softly in the corner.
  • A steady hum comes from the air conditioner.
  • The workshop hums with activity all morning.

Forms

hum · hums · hummed · humming

Similar words

buzz
Usually suggests a sharper sound, like an insect or vibrating device.
drone
Emphasizes a prolonged, monotonous sound, often louder than a hum.