whispering

1 of 2

noun

whis·​per·​ing ˈ(h)wi-sp(ə-)riŋ How to pronounce whispering (audio)
1
a
: whispered speech
b
2
: a sibilant sound : whisper

whispering

2 of 2

adjective

1
: making a sibilant sound
2
: spreading confidential and especially derogatory reports
whispering tongues can poison truthS. T. Coleridge
whisperingly adverb

Examples of whispering in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Popular triggers include whispering, tapping and crinkling, and many ASMRtists (great name, huh?) offer roleplays in their videos. Rachel Burchfield, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025 On one hand, there was a bevy of huge, crazy Tribal Councils with last-second whispering and maneuvering leading to jaw-dropping exits. Dalton Ross, EW.com, 15 May 2025
Adjective
The universe is whispering to you, so listen closely. Kyle Thomas, People.com, 23 Mar. 2025 Follow your intuition as the universe is whispering to you. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 31 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for whispering

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Adjective

1547, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of whispering was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Whispering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/whispering. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

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