English Lexicon

Chittering

/ˈtʃɪt.ər.ɪŋ/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A series of short, high-pitched sounds made by small animals, especially birds or rodents.

    "The chittering of the squirrels filled the park as they played among the trees."
  2. 2

    A similar sound made by insects or other small creatures.

    "As dusk fell, the chittering of crickets created a soothing background noise."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'chittering' originates from the Middle English 'chiteren', which is imitative in nature, reflecting the sounds made by small animals, particularly birds and rodents. Its usage has evolved to describe the high-pitched sounds produced by these creatures, especially in a social or alarm context.

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