mutter

Everyday

1. To speak quietly and unclearly, often to yourself, so others cannot hear well. tree →
2. To complain quietly, often in an angry or grumpy way: muttering about the rain. tree →
3. (noun) Quiet, unclear speech: a mutter of complaint. tree →

In the lessons

In stories, «muttered» is a speech verb that shows a character is grumpy, shy or secretive, instead of plain «said». In everyday life adults tell children «don't mutter, speak up». Phrases: mutter to yourself, mutter under your breath, mutter about.

Examples

• «This isn't fair,» he muttered. tree →
• She muttered something I couldn't hear. tree →
• Grandpa muttered about the price of bread. tree →
• Speak up, don't mutter! tree →
• The wizard muttered a spell under his breath. tree →
• The crowd began to mutter angrily. tree →
• I heard a mutter from the back of the class. tree →
• He muttered to himself as he searched for his keys. tree →
• “'He is coming!' said the people,” muttered old Iktomi. tree →

Note

Regular verb: muttered, muttering (double t already). Similar: mumble (unclear), grumble (complain), whisper (soft but clear). Good word for writing instead of «said».

In Jewish tradition

It can mean the low, strange sounds made by people who try to speak to the dead. It can also mean the quiet plotting of nations against God.

Interpretation. The prophet Isaiah mocks those who consult spirits, and tradition teaches that Israel should ask God and not the dead. Psalm 2 is read as nations that plot in vain against God and His anointed.

Examples

• And why do the peoples mutter in vain? (Writings PSA.2.1, JPS 1917) tree →
• And when they shall say unto you: 'Seek unto the ghosts and the familiar spirits, that chirp and that mutter; should not a people seek unto their God? on behalf of the living unto the dead (Prophets ISA.8.19, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Regular verb: muttered, muttering (double t already). Similar: mumble (unclear), grumble (complain), whisper (soft but clear). Good word for writing instead of «said».