sough
UK[saʊ]US[saʊ]
v
To make a soft, deep, rushing sound, as of wind in trees or water flowing over stones.
n
A soft, deep, rushing sound, such as that made by the wind.
Etymology
The word 'sough' is a classic example of onomatopoeia, where the sound of the word directly imitates the natural sound it represents. It originates from Middle English swoughen, swowen, which meant to sound or whistle, and is related to Old English swōgan meaning to make a sound, roar, or rustle. These early forms are believed to be imitative in origin, echoing the deep, murmuring noise of wind or water. Over centuries, the spelling and pronunciation simplified and stabilized into the modern 'sough', retaining its core semantic link to a soft, continuous, and melancholic natural sound.
Analysis
This word is a simplex. It is an onomatopoeic word, imitating the sound it describes. Its functional role is as a whole word.
Examples
The wind began to sough through the tall pines as the storm approached.
Lying in bed, she could hear the gentle sough of the stream outside her window.
A mournful soughing in the chimney was the only sound in the old house.