Shush

To tell someone to be quiet, especially by making a 'sh' sound or saying the word 'shush'. It implies a desire for silence or the cessation of noise, often used when others are being disruptive or making an unwanted noise. The act can vary from a gentle reminder to a more forceful demand, depending on the context and the urgency. It's a common social tool for controlling noise levels and maintaining order, be it in libraries, theaters, during sensitive conversations, or with boisterous children. The intent behind 'shushing' is almost always to reduce auditory stimuli, though sometimes it could be interpreted as a sign of impatience or disapproval.

Shush meaning with examples

• In the hushed library, the librarian swiftly turned and 'shushed' the group of giggling teenagers, their laughter echoing in the quiet space. Her hand went up to her lips as she whispered 'Quiet, please'. They immediately lowered their voices. The need for silence to be maintained for others to research led her to do it.
• During the film's climax, a cellphone rang, prompting a chorus of 'shushes' from irritated moviegoers. One angered viewer exclaimed 'Hey! Someone 'Shush'!'. The interruption had broken the spell of the intense scene and the focus of many viewers was broken until the ringing stopped. The use of 'shush' was needed to restore order.
• The exhausted mother gently 'shushed' her crying baby, rocking her gently and softly saying 'sh, sh' hoping to soothe the child back to sleep. She was using the word and action to help calm and quiet the child. The goal was to make the child more relaxed.
• As the important business meeting began, the chairperson 'shushed' the side conversations to gain everyone’s attention and officially get underway. Her raised hand signaled to silence. Her need was to maintain order and to stop disruption so the meeting could commence. Maintaining silence was very important.
• When a child started interrupting the storytelling time the teacher 'shushed' them, explaining it was impolite to talk during the tale. She needed the group to quiet to maintain focus on her story and to show respect to others. The child needed a lesson in social conduct.