hume: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowArchaic/Poetic/Literary
Quick answer
What does “hume” mean?
To think, reflect, or ponder deeply.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To think, reflect, or ponder deeply; to be absorbed in thought. (Now archaic and largely poetic/literary).
1. (Archaic) To muse or meditate. 2. (Rare/Historical) Sometimes used as a variant spelling of 'hum' (to make a low, continuous sound).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant modern difference, as the word is obsolete in both varieties. Its historical use was equally rare in both BrE and AmE literature.
Connotations
Conveys a sense of old-fashioned, quiet contemplation or melancholy musing.
Frequency
Effectively zero in contemporary usage for both.
Grammar
How to Use “hume” in a Sentence
[Subject] + hume + (on/upon/over) + [Topic][Subject] + hume + (quietly)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hume” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The scholar would often hume in his library by candlelight.
- Let us hume upon the mysteries of nature.
American English
- He humed over the old manuscript for hours.
- She preferred to hume quietly rather than engage in debate.
adverb
British English
- No standard adverb form.
American English
- No standard adverb form.
adjective
British English
- No standard adjective form.
American English
- No standard adjective form.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Only in the context of studying historical texts or the philosophy of David Hume.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hume”
- Using it in modern speech or writing.
- Confusing it with the verb 'hum' (to make a sound).
- Misspelling as 'hewn'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an archaic and very rare verb. You will almost never encounter it in modern English outside of historical or literary studies.
'Hume' specifically implies deep, prolonged, and quiet contemplation, whereas 'think' is the general, modern term for any mental activity.
Only for passive recognition when reading older literature. Do not attempt to use it actively in speech or writing, as it will sound affected and confusing.
Only etymologically as a surname. The verb 'hume' is not directly derived from his name, though it is a useful mnemonic connection for the meaning of deep thought.
To think, reflect, or ponder deeply.
Hume is usually archaic/poetic/literary in register.
Hume: in British English it is pronounced /hjuːm/, and in American English it is pronounced /hjuːm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Hume and haw (archaic variant of 'hem and haw' meaning to hesitate or be indecisive).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the philosopher David **Hume** who spent his life **hum(ing)** over deep thoughts. 'Hume' sounds like 'human' thinking.
Conceptual Metaphor
THOUGHT IS A LOW SOUND (linked to its variant meaning 'to hum').
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the verb 'hume' be most appropriately used today?