Fluttering: meaning, definitions and examples

When something moves rapidly and lightly, often used to describe the gentle, rapid movements of birds' wings or flags in the wind.

• The butterfly was fluttering its wings gently
• Her heart was fluttering nervously before the speech

Used when describing a more pronounced and often noisy, back-and-forth movement, commonly associated with birds, flags, or even human actions.

• The bird started to flap its wings as it tried to take off
• The old sign flapped in the wind

This word is best used when describing a light, rapid motion, often of something delicate or gentle such as wings or fabric.

• The butterfly was fluttering its wings around the flowers
• Her heart was fluttering with excitement

This phrase is suitable for describing a quick and intense movement, usually of the heart, often due to fear, excitement, or physical exertion.

• After running up the stairs, his heart was beating rapidly
• Her heart beat rapidly at the sight of her surprise birthday party

This word is used to describe a heavy, forceful, and often loud beating, typically of the heart when one is very scared, excited, or physically active.

• His heart pounded inside his chest during the horror movie
• She felt her heart pound with anticipation as the race began

This word is often used in a medical or formal context to describe an irregular or rapid beating of the heart, typically due to anxiety or illness.

• His heart began to palpitate as he waited for the exam results
• The doctor asked if she had experienced any palpitations recently

This word is often used to describe light, rapid movements, typically by wings or something light and delicate like a piece of paper or leaves in the wind.

• Butterflies were fluttering around the garden.
• The leaves were fluttering in the gentle breeze.

This term usually signifies a broader, louder motion and is often used for larger, heavier objects or wings moving more forcefully.

• The bird flapped its wings and took off.
• The flag flapped noisily in the strong wind.

Quivering implies small, rapid movements and often conveys a sense of shakiness or slight trembling. It can describe emotions or physical objects.

• She could feel a quiver of fear in her voice.
• The rabbit’s whiskers quivered as it sniffed the air.

Rustling typically refers to a soft, light sound that leaves, paper, or fabric make as they move. It indicates a gentle, often pleasant, kind of sound.

• The leaves rustled softly in the wind.
• She heard a rustling sound coming from the closet.