Dec 6, 2016 · The meaning of MUM is silent. How to use mum in a sentence.

Syncope applies to the base so that the first syllable, mum, contains all of the first morpheme and some of the second.

Definition of mum noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Jul 14, 2025 · This comprehensive glossary entry unravels the full meaning, definition, and etymology of "mum." Discover its various uses through examples, from informal address to …

Mum's the word is a popular English idiom. It is related to an expression used by William Shakespeare, in Henry VI, Part 2. [1] The word "mum" is an alteration of momme, which was …

There are seven meanings listed in OED's entry for the word mum, four of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Dec 20, 2025 · From Middle English mum or mom (“silent”), reminiscent of the sound made when gagged or with a hand over one's mouth. Perhaps related to dated German Mumme (“mask”).

Used as a command to stop speaking. Say nothing of the secret you know: Mum's the word on the surprise party. [Middle English mom, mum, perhaps imitative of closing one's lips.] 1. To …

Mom is more common in American English, while mum is more common in British English. The charts below show the relative usage of mum vs. mom in both language communities.

Silent; not speaking. Used as a command to stop speaking. To wear a mask or costume in fun; specif., to act as a mummer at Christmastime. To go merrymaking in a mask or disguise …