Word
muffled
Phoneticsmuf·fled, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈməfəɫd/
UK/mˈʌfəld/
Definition
adj. quiet and not clear because something is blocking the sound. You use this to describe noises that sound soft or dull, like someone talking through a wall.
adj. describing a sound that is deadened, muted, or made less distinct by a physical barrier or covering. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'sound' or 'seem'.
Examples
“I heard muffled voices coming from the next room.”
“The thick winter snow created a muffled silence throughout the usually noisy city streets.”
“Through the heavy oak doors, the sounds of the orchestra were muffled, reduced to a low rhythmic thrumming that barely disturbed the quiet of the hallway.”
Examples
simple
“I heard muffled voices coming from the next room.”
contextual
“The thick winter snow created a muffled silence throughout the usually noisy city streets.”
complex
“Through the heavy oak doors, the sounds of the orchestra were muffled, reduced to a low rhythmic thrumming that barely disturbed the quiet of the hallway.”
Usage
Typically functions as an adjective; can be used both before a noun or after a linking verb.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/muffled