English–French

“hum” in French

Pronunciation

IPA/ʃɑ̃tone/

Example

Elle chantonne une mélodie en préparant le dîner.

She hums a melody while preparing dinner.

Illustration for chantonner (hum)

How to say “hum” in French

“Hum” in French is chantonner.

A person quietly carries a melody under the breath while doing another task, with the words indistinct.

Full entry for chantonner: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with chantonner

Il chantonne sous la douche.

He hums in the shower.

Tips for using chantonner

  • Chantonner is not the usual French equivalent of English chant, which suggests a more deliberate or collective vocal performance.

Other French words for “hum”

Le vrombissement du moteur est fort.

The engine's hum is loud.

“hum” in other languages