VocabDictionary

chattering

/ˈtʃæt.ər.ɪŋ/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Making a series of quick, fast, or clicking sounds; talking rapidly and incessantly about trivial matters.

Example Sentences:
  • The chattering children filled the playground with laughter.
  • His chattering teeth gave away how cold he was in the winter air.
2.noun

The action of talking rapidly and continuously, or a series of quick, rattling mechanical or vocal sounds.

Example Sentences:
  • She tried to sleep through the endless chattering of the television in the background.
  • The chattering of the machine indicated a loose gear.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “chattering”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English verb 'chatren' or 'chateren', of imitative origin (echoing the sound of quick, repetitive speech or animal noises), related to Old English 'cetian' and similar echoic words across Germanic languages.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a monkey 'chat-chat-chattering' in the trees while talking quickly and endlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions About “chattering

1. What is the meaning of “chattering” in English?

In English, chattering (adjective) is defined as: “Making a series of quick, fast, or clicking sounds; talking rapidly and incessantly about trivial matters.”.

2. How do you use “chattering” in a sentence?

The chattering children filled the playground with laughter.

3. What are English synonyms of “chattering”?

Common synonyms include:prattling,babbling,gossiping,prating

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “chattering”?

Derived from the Middle English verb 'chatren' or 'chateren', of imitative origin (echoing the sound of quick, repetitive speech or animal noises), related to Old English 'cetian' and similar echoic words across Germanic languages.