verb
muffle
MUF-ul/ˈmʌfl/
To make a sound quieter or less distinct.
The folded cloth muffles the snare drum as the drummer strikes it.
Etymology
Muffle first meant to cover or wrap something for concealment or protection. Wrapping an object to deaden its noise supplied the bridge to the current meaning of softening sound.
In context
muffle every bit of sound out there right in the city of new york no sound none
More examples
- She presses her sleeve against her mouth to muffle a cough.
- The closed door muffled their voices.
- Carpet helps by muffling footsteps in the hallway.
Forms
muffle · muffles · muffled · muffling
muffler noun — A device that reduces exhaust noise.
Similar words
- dampen
- Often suggests reducing vibration as well as sound.
- silence
- Stops sound entirely rather than merely reducing its volume.