hubbub

[ huhb-uhb ]

noun

1. a loud, confused noise, as of many voices:

   There was quite a hubbub in the auditorium after the announcement.

   Antonyms: quiet

2. tumult; uproar.

   Synonyms: confusion, disorder, disturbance

   Antonyms: calm

hubbub

/ ˈhʌbʌb /

noun

1. a confused noise of many voices
2. uproar

Word History and Origins

Origin of hubbub¹

First recorded in 1545–55; apparently of Irish origin; akin to Scots Gaelic cry ubub! (reduplication of ub! ) expressing aversion or contempt

Word History and Origins

Origin of hubbub¹

C16: probably from Irish hooboobbes; compare Scottish Gaelic ubub! an exclamation of contempt

Synonym Study

See noise.

Example Sentences

I wondered if I could sneak away in all the hubbub and steal my freedom.

From Literature

Leaders in the NBC newsroom, convinced that election year audiences deserved to hear a perspective from conservatives like Ms. McDaniel, believed the hubbub would fizzle out.

From New York Times

As early as 1994, The Times described politics in the cities as “often a hubbub of conflict and scandal.”

From Los Angeles Times

Their hope is that it will continue long after the crowds and the hubbub of the Games disappears.

From Seattle Times

The hubbub surrounding the cast, especially heading into Season 11, made filming more challenging.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• brouhaha
• clamor
• fuss
• hue and cry
• ruckus
• tumult
• uproar