ざわざわ

adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle, noun or participle which takes 'suru'

noisily; bustling; in a commotion

Describes the sound or atmosphere of many people talking at once, creating a lively or restless noise. Often used for crowds, classrooms, or parties.

• 教きょう室しつがざわざわしている。

  The classroom is noisy with chatter.

• 会かい場じょうに入はいると、ざわざわとした話はなし声ごえが聞きこえた。

  When I entered the venue, I heard a bustling murmur of voices.

adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle, noun or participle which takes 'suru'

rustling; rippling

Mimics the soft, continuous sound of leaves, branches, or water surface moving. Less common than the crowd-noise sense.

• 風かぜで木この葉はがざわざわと揺ゆれている。

  The leaves are rustling in the wind.

adverb, adverb taking the 'to' particle, noun or participle which takes 'suru'

with a chill; shiver

Describes a sudden cold sensation or shiver, often from fear or an eerie feeling. Typically used with expressions like 背筋がざわざわする.

• その話はなしを聞きいて、背せ筋すじがざわざわした。

  Hearing that story sent a chill down my spine.