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hum

[/hʌm/]
verb/nounpl: hums (verb: third person singular); hums (noun: plural)
zumbir/cantarolar
1. (verb) To make a low continuous sound with closed lips
She hummed a tune while working.
Ela cantarolava uma melodia enquanto trabalhava.
2. (verb) To make a low buzzing or droning sound
The refrigerator hums constantly.
O refrigerador zumbe constantemente.
3. (noun) A low continuous sound
The hum of the engine was soothing.
O zumbido do motor era relaxante.
4. (noun) An expression of hesitation or doubt (interjection)
Hum, I'm not sure about that.
Hum, não tenho certeza sobre isso.
Synonyms
buzzdronemurmurpurrcroon
Antonyms
silencequiet

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
zumbir/cantarolar
Most common usage in Brazilian Portuguese
Portugal
zumbir/cantarolar
Standard European Portuguese equivalent

Related Idioms & Phrases

hum and haw - hesitate or speak with uncertainty
the hum of activity - the quiet sounds of busy work
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