pat·ter | \ ˈpa-tər 
\
\pattered; pattering; patters
Definition of patter
(Entry 1 of 4)
: to say or speak in a rapid or mechanical manner
1 : to recite prayers (such as paternosters) rapidly or mechanically
2 : to talk glibly and volubly
3 : to speak or sing rapid-fire words in a theatrical performance
patter
noun (1)Definition of patter (Entry 2 of 4)
2 : the spiel of a street hawker or of a circus barker
3 : empty chattering talk
4a(1) : the rapid-fire talk of a comedian
(2) : the talk with which an entertainer accompanies a routine
b : the words of a comic song or of a rapidly spoken usually humorous monologue introduced into such a song
patter
verb (2)pattered; pattering; patters
Definition of patter (Entry 3 of 4)
1 : to strike or pat rapidly and repeatedly
2 : to run with quick light-sounding steps
: to cause to patter
patter
noun (2)Definition of patter (Entry 4 of 4)
: a quick succession of light sounds or pats
Other Words from patter
Verb (1)
patterer \ ˈpa-tər-ər \ noun
\ nounKeep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
More Definitions for patter
patter
verbpat·ter | \ ˈpa-tər \
\pattered; pattering
Kids Definition of patter
(Entry 1 of 2)
1 : to strike again and again with light blows
We could hear rain pattering on the roof.
2 : to run with quick light steps
patter
nounKids Definition of patter (Entry 2 of 2)
: a series of quick light sounds
We heard the patter of little feet.
Comments on patter
What made you want to look up patter? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Words of Snow and Ice Quiz
- Which of the following refers to thin, bending ice, or to the act of running over such ice?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Anagram puzzles meet word search.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
- Words of Snow and Ice Quiz
A selection of words from the chillier parts of t...
Take the quiz - Name that Thing: Toys and Games Edition
It's all fun and games until someone beats your h...
Take the quiz - True or False?
Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something a...
Take the quiz - SCRABBLE® Sprint
SCRABBLE® fans, sharpen your skills!
Play the game
Share patter
Time Traveler for patter
The first known use of patter was in the 14th century
See more words from the same century