susurrus

noun

su·​sur·​rus su̇-ˈsər-əs How to pronounce susurrus (audio)
-ˈsə-rəs
: a whispering or rustling sound
susurrant
su̇-ˈsər-ənt How to pronounce susurrus (audio)
-ˈsə-rənt
adjective

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The shallow lagoon lends itself to taking in the surroundings — a kitesurfer skimming the crystalline surface to my left, a couple finding their balance on paddleboards to my right, and the susurrus of the sea all around. Alisha Prakash, Travel + Leisure, 1 Mar. 2021 Dread creeps in; the ear instinctively fastens on anything, whether fire-hiss or bird call or susurrus of leaves, that will save it from this unknown emptiness. The Economist, 17 May 2018 This aura suffuses every aspect of the production, including Lauren Helpern’s stylized woodland set; Isabella Byrd and Matt Frey’s crepuscular lighting and Leah Gelpe’s sound, which abounds in the susurrus of crickets. Ben Brantley, New York Times, 14 Mar. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'susurrus.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

Latin, hum, whisper — more at swarm

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of susurrus was in 1826

Dictionary Entries Near susurrus

Cite this Entry

“Susurrus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/susurrus. Accessed 26 Mar. 2023.

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