Susurro vs. cuchicheo
This article addresses the differences between the two Spanish words 'susurro' and 'cuchicheo', both of which are related to whispering or speaking softly.
Susurro
'Susurro' specifically refers to the soft or hushed sound that one makes when whispering.
Podía oír el susurro del viento en los árboles.
(I could hear the whisper of the wind in the trees.)
Su voz era apenas un susurro.
(His voice was barely a whisper.)
El susurro de las hojas secas bajo sus pies le tranquilizaba.
(The whisper of dry leaves under his feet was calming to him.)
Cuchicheo
'Cuchicheo' has a slightly different connotation. It refers more to the act of whispering amongst others. This can imply a secret or clandestine conversation, often in a group setting.
Los cuchicheos de los estudiantes despertaron la curiosidad del profesor.
(The whispers of the students piqued the teacher's curiosity.)
Los cuchicheos en la sala de conferencias sugerían que había noticias importantes.
(The whispering in the conference room suggested there was important news.)
El cuchicheo constante en clase era molesto para el profesor.
(Constant whispering in class was annoying for the teacher.)
Summary
'Susurro' and 'cuchicheo' both refer to types of soft or whispered speech, but they are used in slightly different contexts. While 'susurro' focuses more on the sound made when one whispers, 'cuchicheo' tends to imply secret or discrete conversations taking place among people.