Hum Definition & Meaning

hum
noun
  1. the state of being or appearing to be actively engaged in an activity; "they manifested all the busyness of a pack of beavers"; "there is a constant hum of military preparation"
  2. an Islamic fundamentalist group in Pakistan that fought the Soviet Union in Afghanistan in the 1980s; now operates as a terrorist organization primarily in Kashmir and seeks Kashmir's accession by Pakistan
  3. a humming noise; "the hum of distant traffic"
verb
  1. sing with closed lips; "She hummed a melody"
  2. be noisy with activity; "This office is buzzing with activity"
  3. sound with a monotonous hum
  4. make a low continuous sound; "The refrigerator is humming"

"Hum" in song lyrics

See how hum is used in real songs:

  • "Don't look dumb if my breath on hum"
    Afroman — Let's All Get Drunk
  • "I see what you doin mami, um hum"
    Baby (AKA the #1 Stunna) f/ Mannie Fresh, P. Diddy, Tateeze — Do That...
  • "I get you drunk like bum, hum"
    The Beatnuts — Rik's Joint

Words that rhyme with hum

Usage tips for "hum"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "hum" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for hum to find words that pair well.

Look up another word