Clatter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clatter

[ˈklætər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sound

A continuous rattling sound as of hard objects falling or striking each other.

Synonyms

clang, clash, clink, rattle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
clatter	Used to describe a series of sharp, loud sounds made when hard objects hit each other, typically in a somewhat chaotic manner. This is often associated with dishes, cutlery, or machinery. The dishes clattered in the sink She accidentally knocked over a stack of books, causing them to clatter to the ground
rattle	Describes a rapid succession of short, sharp sounds produced by loose objects shaking or moving. This term might also imply unease or something being loose or unstable. The window rattled in the wind She heard the rattle of keys in his pocket
clash	Used when metal objects hit each other in a way that suggests conflict or force, such as during a fight or collision. It often portrays a more dramatic or violent interaction. The swords clashed noisily as the knights fought We heard the clash of cymbals in the parade
clang	Describes a loud, resonant metallic sound, often implying something large and heavy like a bell or a metal door. This term can convey a sense of sudden noise. The gate clanged shut behind him She heard the clang of hammers in the metal workshop
clink	Refers to a light, high-pitched sound made by small metallic objects striking against each other, often in a more delicate and less chaotic manner. The glasses clinked together in a toast He dropped a coin into the jar, which made a soft clink

Examples of usage

The clatter of dishes being washed in the kitchen could be heard from the living room.
We were awoken by the clatter of rain on the tin roof.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

noise

To make or cause to make a continuous rattling sound.

Synonyms

clang, clash, clink, rattle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
clatter	When there is a continuous and loud noise, usually from many small, hard objects hitting each other. The dishes clattered as they were hastily put away. The clatter of the pots and pans woke everyone in the house.
rattle	When there is a rapid succession of short, sharp sounds, often from something loose or shaking. The old car rattled as it drove down the cobblestone street. The window rattled in the strong wind.
clash	When there is a loud, harsh noise from two or more objects striking together, often used for conflicts or collisions. The swords clashed as the duel began. The cymbals clashed together during the musical performance.
clang	When there is a loud, resonant metallic sound, often from a single impact. The bell clanged loudly in the tower. He dropped the metal bar, and it clanged against the floor.
clink	When there is a light, high-pitched sound, usually from glass or metal lightly striking each other. They raised their glasses for a toast, resulting in a soft clink. The coins clinked together in his pocket.

Examples of usage

He clattered the pots and pans together in the kitchen.
The horse's hooves clattered on the cobblestone street.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

In many animated films, the sound of clattering cookware or utensils is often exaggerated for comedic effect.
Songs and soundtracks often use clattering sounds to evoke excitement or chaos during action scenes.
In video games, clattering sounds are employed to enhance the realism of battles or clumsy character movements.

Science

Sound waves produced by clattering objects create vibrations in the air, which is how we hear them.
Research in acoustics studies how different materials create unique clattering sounds based on their properties.
The way sound travels through environments can change how clattering noises are perceived, such as in echo-filled halls.

Psychology

People often react instinctively to sudden clattering sounds, triggering fight-or-flight responses.
The sound of clattering can be associated with surprise, drawing attention and causing alertness.
In quieter environments, clattering sounds can feel more jarring due to contrast in sound levels, amplifying stress.

Literature

Authors often use clattering descriptions to convey chaos or disorder in a scene to evoke strong imagery.
In poetry, clatter can symbolize discord or conflict, emphasizing emotional turbulence.
Famous literary works often depict characters in troubled situations accompanied by the sound of clattering objects, indicating turmoil.

Origin of 'clatter'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Middle English 'clatren,' which meant to make a noise or clamor.
It is related to the Old Norse word 'klatro,' reflecting Scandinavian influence on English.
The root idea is linked to the sound of quick movements or impacts, illustrating sharp noises.

The word 'clatter' has its origins in the Middle English word 'clatren', which meant 'to make a loud, rattling sound'. It is believed to have evolved from the Old Norse word 'klatri', which also meant 'rattle'. Over time, 'clatter' has retained its original meaning of a loud, continuous rattling sound, whether produced by hard objects falling or striking each other or by the rapid movement of something.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,658, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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18655 shaggy
18656 firmament
18657 ostensible
18658 clatter
18659 compilers
18660 galloped
18661 incubator
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