First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1hum
verb \ˈhəm\
: to make a low continuous sound
: to sing the notes of a song while keeping your lips closed
: to be very active or busy
hummedhum·ming
Full Definition of HUM
intransitive verb
1
a : to utter a sound like that of the speech sound \m\ prolonged b : to make the natural noise of an insect in motion or a similar sound : drone c : to give forth a low continuous blend of sound
2
a : to be busily active <the museum hummed with visitors> b : to run smoothly <the business started to hum>
transitive verb
1
: to sing with the lips closed and without articulation
2
: to affect or express by humming <hummed his displeasure>
— hum noun
— hum·ma·ble \ˈhə-mə-bəl\ adjective
See hum defined for English-language learners
See hum defined for kids
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Origin of HUM
Middle English hummen; akin to Middle High German hummen to hum, Middle Dutch hommel bumblebee
Related to HUM
2hum
Definition of HUM
chiefly British variant of hem
HUM Defined for Kids
1hum
verb \ˈhəm\
hummedhum·ming
Definition of HUM for Kids
1
: to utter a sound like a long \m\
2
: to make the buzzing noise of a flying insect
3
: to make musical tones with closed lips
4
: to give forth a low murmur of sounds <The street was humming with activity.>
5
: to be very busy or active <The mall hummed with shoppers.>
2hum
noun
Definition of HUM for Kids
1
: a low continuous noise <the hum of bees>
2
: musical tones voiced without words
Medical Dictionary
hum
noun \ˈhəm\
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