HUSH DOWN Meaning and
Definition
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"Hush down" is a phrasal verb used to describe the act of quieting or silencing someone or something. It is commonly used in informal speech and is a figurative expression that conveys the notion of reducing noise or suppressing a disruptive or unruly situation. The phrase can be broken down into two parts: "hush" and "down", each of which contributes to its overall meaning.
The term "hush" implies a command to be quiet or to lower one's voice. It suggests creating a calm or tranquil atmosphere by reducing noise levels. It is often used when trying to calm or quiet noisy children or to request silence in a particular setting. "Down" adds a sense of reduction or decrease, suggesting that the noise or disturbance is being brought to a lower level.
When combined, "hush down" signifies the deliberate act of silencing or quieting someone or something in order to maintain peace or order. It can be used in various contexts, such as asking individuals to lower their voices during a conversation, calming down an excited crowd, or requesting someone to quieten their disruptive behavior. Additionally, it can refer to the act of hushing oneself, as a way to collect one's thoughts or to listen attentively.
Overall, "hush down" serves as a command or request to reduce noise levels or calm a situation, conveying the notion of bringing silence, tranquility, or orderliness.
Etymology of HUSH DOWN
The phrase "hush down" is a combination of two words: "hush" and "down".
1. Hush: The word "hush" originated from Middle English and is believed to have developed from the Middle English word "husshen" or "hussen", which meant to become silent or calm. This Old English word was further derived from the Middle Dutch word "husschen", meaning to be silent.
2. Down: The word "down" has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled as "dune" or "dūun". It referred to a lower position or a lesser degree of intensity.
When combined, "hush down" is used to express the act of becoming silent or calming down, often used to quieten a crowd, a noisy environment, or someone who is in a state of agitation.
