sough

/sau/

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Word: Sough

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: The word "sough" means to make a soft, murmuring, or rustling sound, often similar to the sound of the wind or water flowing gently.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "sough" when describing sounds in nature, especially those that are soothing or gentle. It is a somewhat poetic or literary word, so it is more common in written English than in everyday conversation.

Example Sentences:

1. The leaves began to sough softly in the evening breeze.
2. As the river flowed over the rocks, it made a sough that calmed my mind.

Advanced Usage:

While "sough" is less common in modern English, it can be used in descriptive writing, poetry, or when trying to evoke a certain atmosphere. Writers may use it to create a sense of peace or tranquility.

Word Variants:

• Soughing (noun): The act of making a murmuring sound.
• Soughs (plural noun): Refers to multiple instances of murmuring sounds.

Different Meanings:

While "sough" primarily refers to a soft sound, it can also refer to a sigh or a gentle breath. It can be used metaphorically to describe anything that produces a soothing or gentle sound.

Synonyms:

• Murmur
• Whisper
• Rustle
• Purl (which you mentioned in your definition)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include "sough," but you might encounter phrases like "soughing winds" in literature, which describe the sound of the wind.

Summary:

In short, "sough" is a beautiful word that captures the essence of gentle sounds in nature. It adds a lyrical quality to writing and can help paint vivid auditory images for the reader.

Academic

Verb

1. make a murmuring sound
   • the water was purling

Synonyms

• purl