Mumbled

To speak quietly and indistinctly, often with the mouth partly closed, making it difficult for others to understand. It typically conveys nervousness, shyness, annoyance, or a lack of clarity. Mumbling can involve a deliberate attempt to be unclear or can be unintentional, arising from factors like sleepiness, illness, or a lack of confidence. It can also be a characteristic behavior associated with certain social situations or emotional states. The action of mumbling can stem from a variety of psychological and environmental factors and has diverse social implications dependent upon context.

Mumbled meaning with examples

• John, clearly uncomfortable with the spotlight, mumbled his acceptance speech, his words barely audible above the celebratory chatter. He stumbled over his words, avoiding eye contact, a clear sign of his stage fright. The sudden attention brought forth an uncertainty in him. It was a nervous habit when the attention was on him.
• Annoyed by the constant questioning, Sarah mumbled a curt response, her words laced with impatience. She wanted the questioning to end and quickly mumbled something to her friends. She was ready to continue her day. Her frustration was evident in her hasty tone and a muttered undertone to her words. She really did not want to be bothered.
• Lost in his thoughts, the old man mumbled to himself, a string of half-remembered stories escaping his lips. He appeared unaware of his surroundings. The quiet nature of his words could have been interpreted many ways. He lost the ability to discern whether his thoughts should be internal or external.
• Exhausted after a long day, the child mumbled his prayers, his voice barely a whisper against the darkness. Sleep was beckoning. He just wanted to be asleep. The lack of clarity was a sign of his exhaustion and his eagerness to get to sleep. His mumbled words drifted off as he succumbed to the night.
• After being asked about the scandal, the politician mumbled a vague denial, avoiding direct answers. The evasive answer was obvious. He tried to avoid answering the question head on. His avoidance tactics showed a lack of remorse and a want to get out of the situation.