susurrus
Say it: soo-SUH-rus /sjuːˈsʌrəs/ · noun
What “susurrus” means
A soft whispering, murmuring or rustling sound.
Example: “The susurrus of the office air conditioning was the only sound after everyone left.”
When to use it
In literary writing, for quiet background sounds such as leaves rustling or people whispering.
Similar words
whisper, murmur, rustle
Where it comes from
Latin susurrus, 'a whisper, a murmur'.
Quick check
A light wind moves the leaves overhead, making a soft, continuous rustling. What sound do you hear?
susurrus or a rumble?
Show the answer
susurrus
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