Babble: meaning, definitions and examples

Babble is often used to describe incoherent or nonsensical talk, particularly when someone is speaking too quickly or in a way that's difficult to understand. It's often used with babies or very young children who are just starting to talk.

• She babbled on excitedly about her new toy
• The baby started to babble and coo

Chatter typically refers to light, casual conversation, often about unimportant matters. It's often used to describe the noise of people talking in a lively and continuous manner.

• The room was filled with the chatter of guests
• They chattered away happily over coffee

Prattle refers to talk at length in a foolish or inconsequential way. It's often used to describe the chatter of young children or someone talking about trivial matters in a way that can be seen as silly or pointless.

• The old man prattled on about his childhood stories
• The students prattled during the break

Jabber is used to describe talking quickly and excitedly, but often in a way that's hard to understand. It can sometimes have a negative connotation, implying the speech is annoying or unimportant.

• I couldn't understand anything as he jabbered away in a foreign language
• The children jabbered excitedly about their day at the zoo

Babble is often used to describe someone talking rapidly and continuously in a way that doesn't make sense or is difficult to understand. This can be used for young children or someone speaking nervously or excitedly.

• The baby began to babble happily
• After drinking too much coffee, she started to babble about her day

Chatter is typically used for casual, light conversation, especially when multiple people are talking. It often implies a lot of talking about unimportant things.

• The children chattered excitedly during recess
• In the office, there's always some chatter about weekend plans

Murmur is used when people are speaking softly and unclear, often in a way that you can’t make out individual words. This can happen in settings like a library or a meeting.

• There was a murmur of agreement in the crowded room
• She heard the murmur of voices from the next room

Mutter is used to describe speaking in a low tone, often grumpily or complainingly. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting the speaker doesn’t want to be heard clearly.

• He muttered something under his breath about being late
• She muttered angrily when she realized the mistake