Definition of splutter
1 : a confused noise (as of hasty speaking)
2 : a splashing or sputtering sound
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Recent Examples of splutter from the Web
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Its hostility to outsiders splutters on, Griffin's unstinting production (music direction is by Michael Mahler and choreography by Ericka Mac) seems to be saying.
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No doubt this debate will rage, or splutter, for years to come.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'splutter.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of splutter
probably alteration of sputter
splutter
Definition of splutter
transitive verb
: to utter hastily or confusedly : stammer
intransitive verb
1 : to make a noise as if spitting
2 : to speak hastily and confusedly
Examples of splutter in a Sentence
She coughed and spluttered as she climbed out of the icy water.
When I demanded an explanation, he just stood there spluttering.
“Th-that's simply not true,” he spluttered.
Recent Examples of splutter from the Web
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Her tentative manner is in vital contrast to the assured, rolling cadences of the pastor at Mr. Gray’s funeral, or to the fiery, spluttering rage of a man who was arrested during protests in Baltimore.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'splutter.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of splutter
1693
SPLUTTER Defined for English Language Learners
splutter
Definition of splutter for English Language Learners
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: to make a series of short, loud noises like the noises of someone who is struggling to breathe
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: to say (something) in short, confused phrases
SPLUTTER Defined for Kids
splutter
playDefinition of splutter for Students
spluttered
;spluttering
1 : to make a noise as if spitting The engine spluttered.
2 : to speak or say in haste or confusion
Learn More about splutter
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See words that rhyme with splutter Britannica English: Translation of splutter for Arabic speakers
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