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[1] 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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