pitter-patter

Definition of pitter-patternext
as in to throb
to expand and contract in a rhythmic manner his heart pitter-pattered with excitement as he waited for the right moment to propose

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for pitter-patter
Verb
  • The collection consists of the sneaker brand’s UNO sneakers (which, PSA, are a fab Nike Air Max alternative), Arch Fit, and Slip-Ins—all of which include some of the most impressive cushioning and support, so your feet won’t throb after standing for hours in a field.
    Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 19 Mar. 2026
  • The smoke kept rising and the clouds continued to throb with sickly yellow-and-black whorls until just after sunset, when the boiling mass of vapor suddenly turned pink and scarlet, like a poisonous flower opening its petals.
    New York Times, New York Times, 16 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • In March, Israel dropped charges against five soldiers who had been accused of beating and sodomizing a Palestinian detainee in an alleged assault partially caught on camera.
    Sam Mednick, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2026
  • Mike Yastrzemski drove in three, including two on his first homer of the season as part of a four-run fifth, and the Braves beat the Cubs 5-2 in the opener of a three-game series at Truist Park.
    Chad Bishop, AJC.com, 13 May 2026
Verb
  • Then pulse in a mix of cold butter and olive oil, a combo that adds rich flavor, makes the crust tender and keeps it on the healthy side.
    The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 May 2026
  • Drivers may also experience smoother brake operation because the system avoids the harsh pedal pulsing commonly associated with older anti-lock braking systems.
    Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 7 May 2026
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Pitter-patter.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pitter-patter. Accessed 16 May. 2026.

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