Susurrus

Sunday, June 29, 2025
Word of the Day

What is Susurrus?

noun
A soft whispering or rustling sound; a murmur.

Pronunciation

US pronunciation: /suːˈsɝː.əs/
UK pronunciation: /suːˈsʌr.əs/
Slow pronunciation: soo-SUR-us

Meaning Explained

Susurrus is the hush of leaves, surf, or low voices—the summer soundscape in one word.

Why This Word?

Chosen for the sound of wind through evening trees.

Examples of Use

Here's how this word appears in everyday language:

  • The forest's susurrus lulled the campers.
  • A susurrus rose from the back rows.
  • Microphones captured the corridor's susurrus.

Word Origins

Latin susurrus "a murmur, whisper"

Close kin to "susurration"; this is the noun in Latin guise.

First appearance in English: 19th century

Word Family

Related forms of this word:

  • Noun: susurration

    A susurration filled the atrium.

  • Verb: whisper

    They whispered under the dome.

  • Noun: murmur

    A murmur passed through the crowd.

Around the World

How this word appears in other languages:

  • Spanish: susurro / rumor
  • French: susurrement / bruissement
  • German: Säuseln / Geflüster
  • Italian: sussurro / fruscio
  • Portuguese: sussurro / sussurro de folhas

If you Already Know This Word

If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:

Sibilance

Hissing consonants; susurrus is environmental sound.

Breeze

Cause; susurrus is the acoustic effect.

Rustle

Specific leaf/paper sound; susurrus is broader.

Fun Facts

  • ASMR artists cultivate a curated susurrus.
  • In Latin, the word itself is onomatopoetic.

Cultural Usage

  • Field recordists chase the perfect susurrus.
  • Alliterative lines mimic susurrus with "s" and "sh."

Common Mistakes

Not "surreptitious"; different meaning and root.

Micro Story

A susurrus of waves undercut the fireworks.